Last Thursday, we received the devastating news that Hollywood icon Cicely Tyson passed away at the age of 96. Throughout her incredible career, she was known for breaking barriers, shattering stereotypes, and creating an indelible footprint for generations to come.

After the unfortunate news began circulating, the tributes started rolling in from across the globe. Although fans mourned her passing, they also celebrated her legacy and the many contributions she made onscreen and off-screen.

"Thank you for shining your light, beauty, talent and wisdom with all of us, Ms. Tyson. Rest In Peace, Power & Positivity. #CicelyTyson," Tyra Banks tweeted to her 14.2 million followers.

And singer-songwriter Elle Varner also tweeted, "I pray to reach your extraordinary level of tenacity, beauty, humility, and spirit. A generous soul. Thank you, Miss Cicely Tyson, for blessing us with your many gifts and showing me and so many others the way."

Via her manager, Larry Thompson, the late star's family issued a public statement confirming her death. "With heavy heart, the family of Miss Cicely Tyson announces her peaceful transition this afternoon. At this time, please allow the family their privacy."

Thompson further said in the statement, "I have managed Miss Tyson's career for over 40 years, and each year was a privilege and blessing. Cicely thought of her new memoir as a Christmas tree decorated with all the ornaments of her personal and professional life. Today she placed the last ornament, a Star, on top of the tree."

During her final days, the Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress was promoting the release of her memoir, Just As I Am. Hours after her death, her memoir became a best-seller hitting No. 1 on Amazon. In one of her last interviews with Gayle King for CBS This Morning, King asked the acting legend how she wanted to be remembered, to which Tyson responded, "I've done my best. That's all."

We love you, auntie Cicely and you will be tremendously missed. Take a look below at some of the heartfelt tributes from celebs, including Lauren London, Yara Shahidi, Gabby Sidibe, and Zoë Kravitz, to name a few.

Cicely tyson