Celebrities react to Sherman Hemsley's death

"Jeffersons" star and TV icon Sherman Hemsley has passed away at 74, and his famous friends, fans and co-stars were quick to react with sadness at his passing and an outpouring of celebration for his memorable career.

Hemsley made a permanent mark on pop culture beginning in 1973 with the role of George Jefferson in "All in the Family" and then "The Jeffersons." He continued to act in popular television series including "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air" and "Sister, Sister."

The famous "movin' on up" and "deluxe apartment in the sky" references from "The Jeffersons" theme song have a particularly poignant meaning today to all of Hemsley's fans. Russell Simmons, Nicki Minaj, Kevin Smith, and Jackee Harry (who worked with Hemsley in "Amen" and "Sister, Sister") were among the many celebrities who expressed condolences on Twitter.