Cher is considered one of the best classic actors of his generation. With the Royal Shakespeare Company, he played major roles as Macbeth and King Lear. He also appeared as Shylock in The Merchant of Venice.

Cher won the prestigious Olivier Award for his portrayal of Richard III’s Hunchback in the play of the same name. In addition to his performances on stage, the British actor has appeared in dozens of major films including Shakespeare in Love, Mrs. Brown employment The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug.

A large number of celebrities from the British theater world expressed their grief on social media on Friday at the loss of the famous actor. The British prince said in a statement on Saturday that he was deeply saddened by the news, which was announced on Friday evening.

Charles knew Cher well because for many years he was part of the Royal Shakespeare Company, which is headed by the Prince. “I admired him very much for the exemplary way in which he performed his craft and passionately playing every role,” said the Prince. “I feel so lucky to have known him, but we’ve all lost an amazing bone from the stage.”

Charles wishes all the best to the Royal Shakespeare Company and Cher’s husband and director, Greg Doran. “They will feel the greatest grief at the death of a great man and irreplaceable talent.”