The news of Prince’s untimely passing shocked the world on Thursday (Apr. 21) as celebrities, artists and fans took to social media to mourn the loss of the legend. Recently hospitalized after an emergency landing of his plane in Illinois, the artist was pronounced dead at his Minnesota estate after a medical emergency was reported.
According to the Associated Press, first responders attempted to administer CPR to Prince as he was found in his elevator at Paisley Park. TMZ reported that the singer was suffering from a bout with the flu just before his death. As the masses continue to cope with this tremendous loss, BET Networks has issued a statement on the tragedy:
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The news of Prince’s passing weighs heavily on our hearts. He was a musical prodigy, a beautiful spirit and fashion provocateur who influenced American culture.

With a career that spanned four decades, his contributions to music are immeasurable. His influence transcended race, gender and religion. He was unapologetic about his individuality and was the embodiment of what it means to be a true artist. Because of that, he was magnetic to the world.

Prince was the personification of Black excellence. He graced the BET stage countless times, and in 2010, humbly accepted the Lifetime Achievement Award at the BET Awards.  

Icon. Legend. Innovator. Friend. His legacy of brilliance and creativity will forever live on. We will remember him and miss him dearly.

(Photo: Photoshot, PacificCoastNews)