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Alan Thicke, best known for his role on the popular comedy Growing Pains, died last night while playing hockey with his 19-year-old son. He was 69.
Robin Thicke reportedly talked to the Los Angeles Times shortly after his death, saying that he was playing hockey with his son Carter when he had a heart attack. One of the last things he said was a compliment to his son about making a good shot. They were at the Pickwick Ice Skating Rink in Burbank at the time.
“The good thing was that he was beloved and he had closure,” Robin said. “I saw him a few days ago and told him how much I loved and respected him.” He expressed something similar in an emotional Instagram post this morning.
“My Father passed away today. He was the best man I ever knew,” he wrote. “The best friend I ever had. Let’s all rejoice and celebrate the joy he brought to every room he was in. We love you Alan Thicke. Thank you for your love. Love, your grateful son.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BN_W8pgDBf5/
Carter Thicke also expressed his sympathies in a heartbreaking Instagram post that went up last night.
“Today I lost my best friend and my idol, and the world lost one of it’s [sic] finest,” he wrote. “I have never known a more kind, loving, hairy, and generous person in my life and I am forever grateful for the light that this man brought to my life and so many others. You will be missed every second of every day. You are a legend and I love you Pops. Until next time.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BN_AvTuDWC5/?taken-by=carter_thicke
A source close to the family said that Alan was immediately transported to Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. TMZ reports that some of his organs will be donated.
Alan’s spokesperson Monique Moss confirmed “Alan’s sudden passing” in a brief email Tuesday night, adding that “at present, we have no further details.”
Fans have since taken to social media to honor the late actor.
Amen. Godspeed #AlanThicke #FlyGirl#Upintheair pic.twitter.com/oJKejBtAOW
— Rhonda Lee Khabir (@rhondalkhabir) December 14, 2016
Our hockey world is mourning the loss of @Alan_Thicke as well. A quintessential Canadian, he loved the sport that brought so many together.
— Rhys (@Rhys604) December 14, 2016
So sad to hear of the passing of Alan Thicke. I grew up watching him on "Growing Pains"…♡ to his loved ones
— Katy Wright (@KatyWright1983) December 14, 2016
OMFG ALAN THICKE PASSED AWAY 😳
— evie (@evieyannakidis) December 14, 2016
#RIP S/O's to one of my #TVDads #AlanThicke https://t.co/BSJVpy0HFI pic.twitter.com/PjDDUCZGEy
— SweetBianca (@SweetBianca) December 14, 2016
Celebrity friends and co-stars expressed similar sentiments.
— Paula Patton (@PaulaPattonXO) December 14, 2016
Very sad about the passing of Alan Thicke. I was fortunate enough to spend time with him & golf with him. #kindman #generousman #RIP
— Rob Riggle (@RobRiggle) December 14, 2016
America loved Alan Thicke. I'm so sad he's gone. Sending so much love to his family.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) December 14, 2016
sad to learn of Alan Thicke's passing. he was a great friend over the years. thoughts & prayers to his family.
— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) December 14, 2016
I'm sad beyond words that Alan Thicke has passed away. I've known you since I was 8 years old… https://t.co/GLXSTK1nd7
— Candace Cameron Bure (@candacecbure) December 14, 2016
RIP Alan Thicke who was a great talent and a genuine person. #everyonesdad
— Dane Cook (@DaneCook) December 14, 2016
RIP Alan Thicke, you will be missed.
