Hollywood stars pay tribute to James Caan after passing

Oscar-nominated actor passed away on Wednesday

Tributes have been pouring in for James Caan after the actor passed away on Wednesday.

Stars from across the world of film and television paid tribute to the 82-year-old actor, with the likes of Al Pacino, Francis Ford Coppola and Adam Sandler paying their respects to the star.

Francis Ford Coppola, who directed Caan to an Oscar nomination in 'The Godfather' said "from those earlier times working together on 'The Rain People' and throughout all the milestones of my life, his films and the many great roles he played will never be forgotten."

Caan's co-star Al Pacino referred to him as "my fictional brother and lifelong friend."

"It’s hard to believe that he won’t be in the world anymore because he was so alive and daring. A great actor, a brilliant director and my dear friend. I’m gonna miss him."

Kathy Bates, who co-starred alongside Caan in the 1990 thriller 'Misery' said she was "heartbroken" to hear of Caan's passing.

Stephen King, who wrote the novel on which 'Misery' was based on, said that Caan gave an "Oscar-worthy" performance in the film.

Caan's 'Elf' co-star Zooey Deschanel said she was "honoured to have worked with him" and said that Caan "was capable of so many things and that's what made him such a wonderful actor."

Adam Sandler, who has often cited James Caan as a major influence on his decision to become an actor, said he "loved him very much and always wanted to be like him."

'Heat' director Michael Mann worked with Caan on his debut film 'Thief' in 1981, and penned a tribute to the actor.

Mann said "Jimmy was not just a great actor with total commitment and a venturesome spirit, but he had a vitality in the core of his being that drove everything from his art and friendship to athletics and very good times."

"I loved him and I loved working with him. He reached into the core of his being during difficult personal times to be the rebellious, half-wild child, institutionalised outsider Frank, in my first film, Thief."

"The character and the man - like his Sonny in 'The Godfather' - were made for each other," he added.

'Uncut Gems' directors Josh and Benny Safdie revealed that they nearly cast Caan in the lead role after Adam Sandler initially rejected the film, and said "in the air somewhere is a version with Jimmy Caan."