Prolific Actor Bill Paxton Dead At 61

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Actor Bill Paxton has died of complications from surgery, CBS Los Angeles has learned. He was 61.

His family released a statement:

"It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery."

Earlier this month, Paxton visited the CBS Studio Center to talk about his new CBS series' "Training Day."

Upon word of his passing, CBS and Warner Bros. Television issued the following statement:

RELATED: The Internet Mourns Passing Of Reowned Actor Bill Paxton

"We are shocked and deeply saddened this morning by the news of Bill Paxton's passing. Bill was, of course, a gifted and popular actor with so many memorable roles on film and television. His colleagues at CBS and Warner Bros. Television will also remember a guy who lit up every room with infectious charm, energy and warmth, and as a great storyteller who loved to share entertaining anecdotes and stories about his work. All of us here offer our deepest sympathy to his wife, Louise, and his two children."

Paxton's career spanned several decades. He was also known for his roles in "Titanic," "Apollo 13," and "Aliens."

His family said he began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department.

He went on to have "an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker," his family said, adding "Bill's passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable."

Paxton's family has asked for privacy as they mourn their loss.

CBS2's Greg Mills spoke to many of the actor's fans -- and many said they were shocked.

"That's very sad, very sad," said Amanda Clemont.

"He passed away? I didn't even know. Oh no. My gosh, that's so sad," said Audra Palacio.

Actor Rob Lowe tweeted, "Devastated by the sudden loss of my close friend and one of the finest actors in the business."

Another fan noted that he had a way of showing up in all of the movies she loved.

"He was in all of our favorite movies, like 'True Lies' and 'Apollo 13.' So sad," said Jillian Wagers.

"True Lies" co-star Arnold Schwarzenegger tweeted, "Bill Paxton could play any role, but he was best at playing Bill. A great human being with a big heart."

Paxton's "Training Day" co-star Justin Cornwell tweeted, "We were just two guys on top of the world. Rest easy my friend."

Paxton and his second wife Louise Newbury were married for 30 years. They had two children.

As an 8-year-old, Paxton was with his parents in Forth Worth, Texas on Nov. 22, 1963 to hear what would become President John Kennedy's final speech. John Kennedy was assassinated two hours later in Dallas.

Paxton's other film and TV credits include "Big Love,""Parkland,"  "Fresno," "Tombstone," "U-571" "Hatfields & McCoys" and "Millions Dollar Arm."