Helen Mirren “heartbroken” following death of stepson Rio Hackford

Tributes have been pouring in for the actor, who passed away earlier this week.

Helen Mirren has said that she is "heartbroken" following the death of her stepson Rio Hackford. Rio is the son of Mirren's husband Taylor Hackford, and he passed away after being sick with uveal melanoma. Like his father and step-mother, Rio was also an actor, and had roles in The Mandalorian, Treme and American Crime Story. He was 51-years-old. In a statement given to People Magazine, Mirren and Hackford said that they are "both inspired by the life of our son and stepson, Rio Hackford, and heartbroken by his loss." The statement continued: "His life showed us how to live in generosity and community. He shared his life's journey with so many who now mourn him, and at the same time, celebrate their fortune in knowing him." Mirren and Hackford also urged everyone to recognise the symptoms of uveal melanoma and undergo testing if they are concerned. "Rio died of uveal melanoma, a very aggressive and rare form of cancer," they said. "We would beg everyone reading this to get their eyes tested at least once a year, which might save their loved ones from this cancer." Other Hollywood stars have paid tribute to Rio, since his brother announced his passing earlier this week. Queens of the Stone Age's Josh Homme said: "Rio just knew things. Esoteric things. Off-the-map things. Secret things. Wonderful things. "He knew these things because of his charm, wit, honesty, character and tough personality. He was a real man in a sea of poseurs." Vince Vaughn, who starred alongside Rio in a number of films including Swingers and Fred Clause, described Rio as "loyal and funny as anyone could be". Vaughn added that Rio was "the best ever", and "truly one of a kind".