Michael Clarke Duncan, the brilliant actor who starred as the 'gentle giant' with Tom Hanks in the 1999 film "The Green Mile," died Monday morning. He was 54.

Duncan was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in the film adaptation of a Stephen King novel. He had "suffered a myocardial infarction on July 13 and never fully recovered," according to a statement from publicist Joy Fehily.

On Twitter, Duncan's celebrity friends and supporters have been expressing their sympathies for his bereaved family.

Duncan's girlfriend Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth, had been by his side since the July heart attack.

Celebrities post RIP tweets for @OfficialMCD

Duncan's official Twitter account, @OfficialMCD, has been mentioned frequently since reports of his passing reached the media.

Here are some of the celebrities who have tweeted their sympathies:

Zachary Levi: "Blessed to have had the opportunity to work with Michael Clarke Duncan while he was still with us. He was a kind soul that will be missed."

Timbaland: "R.I.P. Michael Clarke Duncan sending my condolences 2 his fam & love ones"

@MCHammer: "One of the best among Men on earth. A gentle Giant. Loved him. Pure class and grace. RIP my friend. #MichaelClarkeDuncan"

‏@donald_faison: "Michael Clarke Duncan i'll never forget you. Such an awesome man taken way too soon. Rest In Peace my friend."

@Alyssa_Milano: @OfficialMCD Rest in peace.

Tom Hanks: 'I am terribly saddened'

Tom Hanks has issued a statement to express his grief over Duncan's passing. He said:

"I am terribly saddened at the loss of Big Mike... He was the treasure we all discovered on the set of The Green Mile. He was magic. He was a big love of man and his passing leaves us stunned."

Click 'Start' to view tribute photos posted on Twitter to celebrate the life of the late Michael Clarke Duncan.

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