Rock icon Tom Petty has died at the age of 66 following a heart attack.
There had been some confusion over Petty’s condition last night when the news broke, with media outlets around the world reporting that he had passed away after being taken off life support – but the LAPD later apologised for ‘inadvertently’ confirming his death without the authority or knowledge to do so.
However, Petty’s death at 3.40am GMT was confirmed in a statement from his family via his manager earlier this morning.
Throughout his life and career, Petty was regarded as one of the most iconic rock artists of all time, both with his band The Heartbreakers, his solo material and as a member of supergroup The Traveling Wilburies.
Fans and celebrities have been paying tribute to him on social media, which you can read below.
RIP.
Sending love to Tom Petty and his family at this difficult time.
Just when I thought today could not get any worse…
R.I.P. Tom Petty. Thank you for your beautiful music and inspiration.
So sad about Tom Petty, he made some great music. Thoughts are with his family.
Shocked and so sad at the passing of Tom Petty. RIP. Bri
So very sad to hear that Tom Petty as left us . A true musical legend who has inspired me for so many years . RIP x G and the feeder boys .
Bless his powerful spirit. #TomPetty
I loved Tom Petty and I covered his songs because I wanted know what it felt like to fly.
“you belong somewhere you feel free.”
Always felt good to know Tom Petty was out there in the world making up beautiful words and music. Sad today but grateful forever. #rip
Another great man gone too soon. #TomPetty you were an exceptional talent. Your legacy lives on.
Just when I thought I couldn’t be any sadder #TomPetty Influenced my writing and music so much #Heartbreakers #heartbroken#TomPettyRIP
“I wanna write her name in the sky
I’m gonna free fall out into nothing
Gonna leave this world for a while” Rest in peace Tom Petty
Meanwhile, his Traveling Wilburies bandmate Bob Dylan told Rolling Stone: “It’s shocking, crushing news. I thought the world of Tom. He was great performer, full of the light, a friend, and I’ll never forget him.”
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