Ryan Reynolds pays tribute to late ‘Roseanne’ producer Eric Gilliland: ‘It’s a tragedy he’s gone’
Eric Gilliland is fondly remembered for the joy he brought to television audiences and the kindness he showed to those around him.
Gilliland, widely recognized for his role as a producer and writer on the 1990s sitcom “Roseanne,” passed away from colon cancer on Sunday, as confirmed by his sister Lisa to Variety. He was 62 years old.
Many celebrities have since shared their condolences for Gilliland, including Michael Fishman, who portrayed D.J. Connor on “Roseanne.”
“Heaven gained another wonderful writer. They always take the best,” Fishman posted on Instagram Monday with a photo of Gilliland. “I know they’re having a good laugh. With his sharp humor and vast knowledge, Eric Gilliland will always be remembered.”
YSL News has sought a comment from Gilliland’s representative.
Gilliland became involved with “Roseanne” in its fifth season in 1992, where he served as a co-producer. He remained with the show until Season 8, ultimately stepping into the role of executive producer.
Besides “Roseanne,” Gilliland contributed to several other popular television serials such as “That ‘70s Show,” “Doogie Howser, M.D.,” “My Boys,” and the “Roseanne” spin-off “The Conners.”
Ryan Reynolds labels Eric Gilliland’s passing a ‘tragedy’
On Tuesday, Ryan Reynolds shared an extensive post on Instagram reflecting on his 27-year friendship with Gilliland, whom he first met during a meeting at the Fox studio lot in Los Angeles.
“He was my first big meeting at the start of my career,” Reynolds noted, admitting he was “extremely nervous” to meet him. “Eric was not what I expected from a highly successful comedy writer. He was incredibly approachable.”
Reynolds added: “I traveled the world with Eric. He showed me Vaudeville and Jack Benny and welcomed me into his circle of incredibly talented writers and performers. He was my education. He helped me evolve and discover my voice. And he did it all while also finding himself. Eric was always in the process of becoming Eric.”
In addition to Gilliland’s comedic brilliance, Reynolds highlighted his admirable character.
“He was kind, gentle, and immensely funny,” Reynolds expressed. “He couldn’t engage in a conversation that was unkind or hurtful. It’s a tragedy he’s gone, and a tragedy that more people won’t have the chance to know him.”
Eric Gilliland’s legacy is one of ‘love,’ says ‘Scandal’ star
“Scandal” actor Dan Bucatinsky shared heartfelt reflections on Gilliland’s influence in a touching Instagram tribute on Monday.
<p”There are no fitting words. For a man who was so good with his…,” Bucatinsky wrote. “Brilliant. Sweet. Kind. HILARIOUS. Generous. His legacy is the love he inspired in so many friends. … I will miss you. Rest in peace.”
Actress Martha Plimpton, who collaborated with Gilliland on “The Cinnamon Bear: A Holiday Adventure” podcast, posted nostalgic photos for her homage on Instagram.
“I can’t seem to find older pictures right now. I’m not entirely sure how to cope with this,” Plimpton shared. “Today is particularly tough. The world feels less joyful and filled with laughter without my friend, @ergill2, Eric Gilliland.”