British politicians took to Twitter Monday morning to mourn the passing of rocker David Bowie, who died Sunday night after an 18-month battle with liver cancer.
British Prime Minister David Cameron called Bowie, who was 69, a “pop genius” and “master of re-invention.”
I grew up listening to and watching the pop genius David Bowie. He was a master of re-invention, who kept getting it right. A huge loss.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) January 11, 2016
Cultural Secretary John Whittingdale praised the “Ziggy Stardust” performer as “a unique and extraordinary talent whose influence was felt around the world.”
Deeply saddened to learn of the loss of David Bowie: a unique and extraordinary talent whose influence was felt around the world
— John Whittingdale (@JWhittingdale) January 11, 2016
Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne said Bowie’s music was “a backdrop to my life” and wanted him to know that he has “made us proud,” presumably referring to all of Britain.
So sad to hear about the great David Bowie – his music was a backdrop to my life. An incredible icon of British creativity who made us proud
— George Osborne (@George_Osborne) January 11, 2016
In an interview with BBC Radio R’s “Today,” Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn said Bowie “represents all that’s best in the fantastic cultural diversity of this country.”
“I can’t think of David Bowie without thinking of ‘Life on Mars’ and as soon as I heard of his death, very very sad, ‘Life on Mars’ comes flowing back into my mind,” he continued. “Wonderful song, wonderful guy.”
Corbyn’s deputy leader, Tom Watson, lamented that there was now “a crack in the sky” with Bowie’s passing.
Farewell David Bowie. I grew up with you. There’s a crack in the sky now you’ve gone.
— Tom Watson (@tom_watson) January 11, 2016
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair issued a statement showing remorse for Bowie and his family:
“I am so sorry to hear the news of David Bowie’s death. I was a huge fan. From the time I saw his Ziggy Stardust concert as a student I thought he was a brilliant artist and an exciting and interesting human being. It was a great privilege when I got to meet him later in life. My thoughts are with his family and friends. He will be deeply mourned.”
In addition to politicians, many celebrities also expressed their sorrow following Bowie’s death, including “Harry Potter” author J.K. Rowling with a heartfelt tweet.
I wish he could have stayed on earth longer. RIP #DavidBowie pic.twitter.com/jnYLaaootw
— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) January 11, 2016
