Roger Rees, 'Cheers' And 'West Wing' Actor, Dies At 71

Welsh-born actor Roger Rees died at his home in New York City on Friday after a brief illness. He was 71.

Rees was known for a variety of roles, including appearances on "Cheers" and "The West Wing," films such as "The Prestige" and "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" and a number of parts on Broadway. Among his many accolades, the actor won Tony and Olivier awards for his role as the original Nicholas Nickleby in "The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby."

Following news of his death, a number of celebrities took to social media to pay tribute, remembering Rees as a friend, colleague and inspiration:

Brilliant actor, dear friend and colleague, witty, kind, private man, Roger Rees died this morning. A space is left that cannot be filled.

— Patrick Stewart (@SirPatStew) July 11, 2015

Roger Rees as Nicholas Nickleby was one of the core cultural experiences of my life. Thank you, RR. http://t.co/nIxPplv0gB

— John Hodgman (@hodgman) July 11, 2015

R.I.P. Roger Rees. A true gentleman. A class act. A genuine man & brilliant actor. He will be missed. All my love to Rick & his loved ones.

— Jesse Tyler Ferguson (@jessetyler) July 11, 2015

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