The legend that is Paul Newman passed on over the weekend at the ripe old age of 83, after shining in a career that will be remembered for quality films that struck a chord with audiences all over the world. Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,Slap Shot, The Sting, The Towering Inferno, Cool Hand Luke, The Road To Perdition and The Colour of Money (for which he picked up a Best Actor Oscar) are just some of the movies in which his star shone blindingly bright. Robert Redford worked with great man on both The Sting and Butch Cassidy and had this to say about his passing: "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." Other members of the Hollywood elite also paid their respects. George Clooney who had long listed Newman as a huge influence on his career said: "He set the bar too high for the rest of us", while Julia Roberts said simply: "He was my hero". Sam Mendes, who directed Newman to a stunning performance in the twilight of his career in Road To Perdition, also paid his respects: "Working with him on Road to Perdition was the highlight of my professional life. To say he was an extraordinary man would be an understatement. It seems to me one of the great 20th century lives, a shining example of how to use global fame for the greater good." Mendes has put it beautifully, and I echo his comments. One of the kings of celluloid has passed on, and is hopefully now reminiscing with Steve McQueen and Marlon Brando somewhere.
