Jessica Bielis honoring late actorPeter Fonda.
Biel, 37, paid tribute to the star on Instagram after his family confirmed his death after suffering respiratory failure due to lung cancer. He was 79.
“I had the honor working with #PeterFonda on the first movie I ever made (as an angsty teenager with a nose ring),” Biel said of the 1997 filmUlee’s Gold.
“Ulee’s Gold was a huge opportunity and he believed in me. I’m forever grateful for him and the impact he had on me and my career,” the mother of one wrote alongside a throwback photo of the pair.
“I’m sure countless others can say the same. Rest in paradise,” Biel concluded.
Peter won aGolden Globe Awardfor best actor in a motion picture drama for his role as a widowed beekeeper and Vietnam veteran Ulysses “Ulee” Jackson, who raises his granddaughters because his son is in prison.
Biel’s heartfelt message comes after stars and directors, including Peter’s sisterJane Fonda, shared a flood of tributes to the late actor.
Steve Granitz/WireImage; Noam Galai/Getty Images
Kate Hudson,Ava DuVernayand director Rob Reiner were among those whoexpressed their condolenceson social media.
“My heart goes out to Jane over the loss of her brother,” Reiner tweeted on Friday. “Peter Fonda was a revolutionary filmmaker during a revolutionary time. Born in the house I now live in, his spirit will be missed.”
“Rest In Peace, Kind Sir,” director DuVernay added, alongside a selfie with Peter.
Peter Fonda and Jane Fonda.Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images
Peter — who was born in New York City to screen legend Henry Fonda and Frances Ford Seymour — was best known for his starring role as Wyatt in 1969’sEasy Rider, which he also produced and co-scripted.
At the time of his death, he was in pre-production for a movie calledSkate God, expected to release in 2020, according to IMDb. The last film he acted in wasThe Last Full Measure,which is expected to be released later this year.
In a statement to PEOPLE his family said, “While we mourn the loss of this sweet and gracious man, we also wish for all to celebrate his indomitable spirit and love of life. In honor of Peter, please raise a glass to freedom.”
source: people.com
