It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of Cindy Williams, one of the beloved stars of the iconic 1970s sitcom “Laverne & Shirley.” After a brief illness, this talented actress, known for her portrayal of Shirley Feeney, passed away. Her family released a heartfelt statement to share the sad news, recognizing the impact she made in the world of television and the widespread love she received from fans.

In the statement, her children Zak and Emily Hudson expressed their profound sadness and paid tribute to their kind and hilarious mother. They described her as one-of-a-kind, beautiful, generous, and filled with a brilliant sense of humor that endeared her to everyone she met. Truly, Cindy Williams was a shining star who left a lasting impression on the hearts of many.

Following the news of Cindy Williams’ passing, fellow actors and celebrities came forward to share their touching tributes to the beloved TV star. One such tribute came from Michael McKean, her co-star on “Laverne & Shirley.” He recounted a backstage moment from their early years on the show, highlighting Cindy’s infectious positivity and enthusiasm for their work.

Ron Howard, the famous actor and director, also honored Cindy Williams with his words. He praised her unpretentious intelligence, talent, wit, and humanity, emphasizing the impact she had on every character she portrayed and every person she collaborated with. Ron Howard considered himself lucky to have worked with her on multiple projects throughout their careers.

Henry Winkler, known for his role as Fonzie on “Happy Days,” expressed his deep admiration for Cindy Williams. He spoke of their friendship, which began when they first met on the set of “Happy Days.” He remembered her as a consistently gracious, thoughtful, and kind person, with limitless talent and an ability to conquer any genre. Henry Winkler feels fortunate to have known her.

Even actor Jon Donahue, who grew up watching Cindy Williams alongside the late Penny Marshall on “Laverne & Shirley,” shared his sadness at her passing. He fondly remembered her work in other classic films, such as “The Conversation” and “American Graffiti.”

Cindy Williams’s talent and infectious spirit left an indelible mark on American television. She will forever be remembered with love and gratitude for the joy she brought into the lives of millions.