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12 September 2016 9:20 AM

Alexis Arquette’s family pay tribute to ‘brilliant, brave’ actress following star’s death aged 47

By Will Stroude

The passing of Alexis Arquette at the age of 47 yesterday (September 11) has left the entertainment world and her fans stunned.

The actress, who appeared in films such as The Wedding Singer and Jumpin’ at the Boneyard, died on Sunday (September 11), surrounded by family. David Bowie’s StarMan played as she passed away after reportedly battling an illness.

Her acting dynasty family – including David, Rosanna, Richmond and Patricia Arquette paid tribute to their sister in a statement:

“Alexis was a brilliant artist and painter, a singer, an entertainer and an actor,” they said . “We learned what real bravery is through watching her journey of living as a trans woman. We came to discover the one truth – that love is everything.”

The continued: “We are comforted by the fact that Alexis came into our family and was our brother and then our sister, and that she gave us so much love. We will love you always, Alexis. We know we were the lucky ones.”

The Arquette’s also said that Alexis’ career “was cut swas cut short, not by her passing, but by her decision to live her truth and her life as a transgender woman.

“Despite the fact that there are few parts for trans actors, she refused to play roles that were demeaning or stereotypical.

“She was a vanguard in the fight for understanding and acceptance for all trans people.”

The Arquette family's statement

They also shared fond memories and special moments with the actress on Twitter. Brother David described her as “my hero for eternity” and shared a photo of the pair, while sister Patricia shared an audio of David Bowie’s Star Man, and wrote “Breaking through the veil singing StarMan.”

Meanwhile, a number of stars from the entertainment world took to Twitter to mourn the actress. Boy George – whom she played an impersonator of in The Wedding Singer – said “RIP my sister Alexis Arquette. Another bright light gone out far too soon. Love to the family and all that loved Alexis.”

Watch Alexis’ electric turn as a Boy George impersonator in The Wedding Singer below:

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