Earlier today, we learned of the tragic passing of beloved Hollywood icon and star of the 1960s Batman television series Adam West. Now, as the news begins to spread, friends, family, and a number of West's former colleagues have started opening up, reflecting on the star's many contributions to TV and film and mourning his loss.RELATED: 15 Reasons Why Batman ’66 Was The BestDeadline rounded up statements from some of West's closest and most frequent collaborators, including Batman '66 costars Burt Ward and Julie Newmar, as well as Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane, whose flagship show featured West in the role of Quahog's eccentric Mayor.

“I am devastated at the loss of one my very dearest friends. Adam and I had a special friendship for more than 50 years. We shared some of the most fun times of our lives together. Our families have deep love and respect for each other. This is a terribly unexpected loss of my lifelong friend. I will forever miss him. There are several fine actors who have portrayed Batman in films. In my eyes, there was only one real Batman that is and always will be Adam West. He was truly the Bright Knight.” - Burt Ward

“Stellar, exemplar, a king to the end. He was bright, witty and fun to work with. I will miss him in the physical world and savor him always in the world of imagination and creativity. He meant so much to people – A friend said: ‘The father that we wanted.’ That is a great gift, no matter how you live it.” - Julie Newmar

"Family Guy has lost its mayor, and I have lost a friend. Adam West was a joy to work with, and the kind of guy you always wanted to be around. His positivity, good nature, and sense of fun were undeniable, and it was always a big jolt of the best kind of energy when he walked in to record the show. He knew comedy, and he knew humanity. I am beyond fortunate to have had the privilege of working with him, and he will be profoundly missed by all of us. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have given, Mr. Mayor. You’re irreplaceable.” - Seth MacFarlane

West's family also took to social media this afternoon to inform the actor's massive legion of followers of the heartbreaking news.

However, it wasn't just West's family that took to social media, as a number of other friends, collaborators, and fans also expressed their grief and sent their condolences.

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West's decades of contributions to Hollywood and pop culture won't soon be forgotten.