Hollywood actor Robert Downey Jr mourns death of ‘beloved’ assistant Jimmy Rich

‘Iron Man’ actor Robert Downey Jr has mourned the death of his assistant Jimmy Rich in a car accident on Thursday.

Downey Jr, 56, took to Instagram to share a message with his fans and followers.

“This is not news. This is a terrible and shocking tragedy. Jimmy Rich was in a fatal car accident at approx. 8pm yesterday. He was a brother, my right hand man, an uncle to our kids and beloved by all who experienced his singular character and wit.. our thoughts go to his relatives, friends, co-workers, and all the fans who knew him as the man who supported every step of my recovery, life and career,” Downey Jr wrote in the emotional post, along with pictures of Rich. “Again, my condolences to his beautiful family, and the legacy of hope and redemption his life will continue to represent. Peace Be Unto You.”

According to Deadline, Rich had worked with Downey since 2003, including on all of Downey’s Marvel films.

Downey Jr’s Marvel co-stars shared their condolences in the comments section of his post.

“So sorry mate. Absolutely Heartbreaking .Such a wonderful human. He’ll be missed,” wrote ‘Thor’ actor Chris Hemsworth.

“Please no oh my god,” wrote actress Gwyneth Paltrow, who plays Pepper Potts in the Marvel Universe.

‘Hulk’ actor Mark Ruffalo wrote: “I have known him almost as long as I have known you, Robert. Breaks my heart to have Jimmy go over to the other world. You will be missed, Jimmy. Thanks for always being real, always being there to lend a hand and showing the way of light forward to so many people. Another sad day.”

Marvel Studios’ Instagram page also posted a tribute for Rich.

“Rest In Peace, Jimmy. You have been such a great friend to all of us at Marvel Studios for so many years. Your love and light were an inspiration to everyone that knew you. We will miss you,” the post read.

‘Captain America’ actor Chris Evans shared his own post on Instagram sharing his condolences.

“I don’t have the words,” Evans wrote. “Jimmy Rich was unlike anyone else. He left an indelible impression on everyone he met. No one more so than my brother @robertdowneyjr. They were inseparable. I’m sending all my love to Jimmy’s friends and family. Be sure to hug your loved ones tightly and please take the time today to show Downey how many people love him and are here for him during this incredibly dark time.”