Hollywood Pays Tribute to Paul Newman

PAUL Newman's death has left Hollywood reeling.

And many stars -- and politicians -- have come out to pay tribute to the late actor, who died Friday after losing his battle with cancer.

Robert Redford: "There is a point where feelings go beyond words. I have lost a real friend. My life – and this country – is better for his being in it."

George Clooney: "He set the bar too high for the rest of us. Not just actors, but all of us."

Arnold Schwarzenegger: "Paul Newman was the ultimate cool guy, who men wanted to be like and women adored. He was an American icon, a brilliant actor, a Renaissance man and a generous but modest philanthropist.

"He entertained millions in some of Hollywood's most memorable roles ever, and he brightened the lives of many more, especially seriously ill children, through his charitable works. Paul was one of a kind. The beloved film star will be missed by a world of fans and admirers. Maria and I send our thoughts and prayers to his wife, Joanne Woodward, his entire family and his many friends."

Sen. Hillary Clinton and former President Clinton: "Paul was an American icon, philanthropist and champion for children. We will miss our dear friend, whose continued support always meant the world to us. Our prayers and thoughts are with Joanne and the Newman family and the many people who Paul impacted through his endless kindness and generosity."

Julia Roberts: "He was my hero."

Looking Back

Born in Cleveland, Ohio in January 1925, Newman served in the Navy in World War II. He hoped of being accepted for pilot training, but his plan was foiled when a flight physical revealed him to be color blind

He eventually became a radioman and gunner.

After the war, he completed his degree at Kenyon College, graduating in 1949. Newman later studied acting at Yale University and under Lee Strasberg at the Actors' Studio in New York.

He was best known for his role in 1967's Cool Hand Luke, and for starring opposite his close friend Robert Redford in 1969's Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and 1973's The Sting.

He was nominated for 10 Oscars in his 50-year-long career, winning the Best Actor accolade for his role in The Color of Money in 1986.

He also won two Golden Globe Awards, a Screen Actors Guild Award, a Cannes Film Festival Award and an Emmy award.

In 2007, he announced his retirement, admitting he was too old to continue his work in Hollywood.

Newman said, "You start to lose your memory, you start to lose your confidence, you start to lose your invention. So I think that's pretty much a closed book for me."

Newman was also famed for his charity work. Following the death of his only son Scott from an accidental drug overdose in 1978, the star set up the Scott Newman Center for drug abuse prevention.

He was also the founder of food company Newman's Own, from which he donated all profits and royalties to charity.

Newman is survived by his wife, actress Joanne Woodward and their three daughters, Elinor, Melissa and Claire. He also has two daughters, Susan and Stephanie from his first marriage to Jackie Witte.

Remembering Dad

"Paul Newman played many unforgettable roles. But the ones for which he was proudest never had top billing on the marquee. Devoted husband. Loving father. Adoring grandfather. Dedicated philanthropist...Always and to the end, Dad was incredibly grateful for his good fortune. In his own words: 'I'’s been a privilege to be here.' He will be profoundly missed by those whose lives he touched, but he leaves us with extraordinary inspiration to draw upon. During this difficult time, we ask for privacy for our family," read a statement from Paul's three daughters with Joanne Woodward: Elinor, Melissa and Claire.

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