Hollywood is in mourning after the sudden death of Oscar-winning director Mike Nichols.
The man behind such masterpieces like "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?", "The Graduate," "The Birdcage" and "Closer" passed away Wednesday at the age of 83. He leaves behind wife Diane Sawyer and three children.
Nichols is credited with helping Whoopi Goldberg launch her career, after giving her her own one-woman show on Broadway.
And it's clear the news was still raw for the comedian this morning on "The View," where she became overcome with emotion as she tried to address the audience.
"This morning ..." she said, before choking up. Cohost Nicolle Wallace stepped in and finished eulogizing Nichols, as Whoopi cried into her hands.
She went on to call him her "mentor."
Many celebrities have taken to Twitter to also share their condolences. Read those below.
We lost the legendary Mike Nichols today. A pioneer of stage and film. A true visionary and a friend.
@RealHughJackman
So sad to hear about the passing of Mike Nichols. What an incredible talent! Truly a legend and innovator. Thoughts are w/ @DianeSawyer
@druidDUDE
To call him a legend would be an understatement. #MikeNichols
@BrooklynDecker
Mike Nichols. Nothing witty or poignant or moving to say, just THANK YOU for countless hours of brilliance & the mirror you held up for us.
@wcruz73
Mike Nichols-you are one of the all time greats. A deeply kind soul, and an incredible artist. You will be greatly missed. RIP sir.
@MattBomer
One of the absolute greatest. RIP. Mike Nichols.
@kerrywashington
Mike Nichols..A legend never dies. When I was struggling young actor, Mike gave me the advice to help me continue on my path. 4ever Grateful
@Matt_Morrison
RIP the Great Mike Nichols - elite member of the pantheon of directors whether stage screen or tv. Any conversation was rich w/wit & wisdom
@RealRonHoward
Thank you Mike Nichols. And here's to you Mrs. Robinson. RIP
@conniebritton
Everyone who knew Mike Nichols at all had this in common. (And this is hard truth.) We felt blessed for every moment we spent with him. God.
@canyonjim
I am beyond sad to learn that #MikeNichols has passed. From The Graduate to Birdcage to Spamalot to his comedy albums, he truly was a Titan.
@joshgad
Mike Nichols gave me my start. A mentor, friend, colleague. One of the best observers of life. My thoughts are with Diane & his children.
@KevinSpacey
RIP, the truly ground breaking Mike Nichols: EGOT winner, comedy legend, one of the best directors of all time, an amazing 60 year career.
@edgarwright
RIP #MikeNichols Legend in real time.
@TaySchilling
Sad to hear of Mike Nichols passing - eternal in his gifts to American culture: "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolfe?" to "Angels." Dues paid.
@jfreewright
Woke up to the news of Mike Nichols' passing. What a talent. Will miss him. RIP
@RealLyndaCarter
So sad to mourn a man who made us laugh and think and feel on stage and screen. Goodbye Mike Nichols. Love and peace to @DianeSawyer
@rachaelray
So sad about #MikeNichols A true legend. What was your favorite #MikeNichols movie? I think mine might be #WorkingGirl
@RealSMG
A true visionary RIP #MikeNichols
@Cary_Elwes
we've lost one of the greats. rest in peace, Mike Nichols
@woodelijah
