The death of Robert Osbourne, who sadly passed away on Monday, for many people felt more like the death of a friend or family member than a television host. Osbourne was the face of Turner Classic Movies for over 20 years and for many people (myself included) Osbourne was a personal guide to finding and falling in love with hundreds of classic films.
Turner Classic Movies General Manager Jennifer Doria made the following statement about Osbourne’s impact on fans. “Robert was embraced by devoted fans who saw him as a trusted expert and friend. His calming presence, gentlemanly style, encyclopedic knowledge of film history, fervent support for film preservation and highly personal interviewing style all combined to make him a truly world-class host. Robert’s contributions were fundamental in shaping TCM into what it is today and we owe him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid.”
Below are just a few of the lovely tributes to Robert Osbourne from Twitter.
So sad to learn of Robert Osbourne's death.He was a very nice man and very kind to me. A genuine classic gentleman.Sympathy to TCM family.
— Fred Willard (@Fred_Willard) March 6, 2017
FAREWELL to a legend & film historian who became synonymous with CLASSIC MOVIES. As the host of @tcm, #RobertOsbourne was the GOLD STANDARD. pic.twitter.com/9zRCz7HlWw
— Scott Mantz (@MovieMantz) March 6, 2017
Robert Osborne was a class act, a true gentleman & his historical nuggets as TCM host made watching those great old movies even better. RIP
— Larry King (@kingsthings) March 6, 2017
I'm sorry, but I may not be able to watch TCM for the next couple of days… it just won't be the same ??#TCMParty #RobertOsbourne pic.twitter.com/fBL7h8jcpw
— Kellie Jo ☾ (@Kellie_McGaha) March 6, 2017
https://twitter.com/cbermanator/status/838886649010483204
Robert Osbourne, host of @tcm, was such a nice guy. Sad he's gone. I nerded out when I met him. pic.twitter.com/MDZeW0dCEx
— Miguel Marquez (@miguelmarquez) March 6, 2017
Whenever I needed company, I invited Robert Osborne in – on #TCM. Films & facts and so much more. He was insightful and comforting. RIP R.O.
— Bryan Cranston (@BryanCranston) March 7, 2017
A tribute to Robert Osborne. @LEGO_Group @tcm #lego #RobertOsborne pic.twitter.com/dCypCn70CF
— Craig Shemin (@CraigShemin) March 6, 2017
My tribute to the @tcm host, Robert Osborne #robertosborne #tcm pic.twitter.com/PqGv4Fg0S3
— Chris Phillips (@chrisphillips25) March 7, 2017
