Obama, Oprah, stars react to Ebert's death

Reaction to news of Roger Ebert's death at age 70 came from all corners of the world Thursday, including the Illinois governor's office and the White House. A sampling:

Ÿ “Michelle and I are saddened to hear about the passing of Roger Ebert. For a generation of Americans — and especially Chicagoans — Roger was the movies. When he didn't like a film, he was honest; when he did, he was effusive — capturing the unique power of the movies to take us somewhere magical. Even amidst his own battles with cancer, Roger was as productive as he was resilient — continuing to share his passion and perspective with the world. The movies won't be the same without Roger, and our thoughts and prayers are with Chaz and the rest of the Ebert family.” — President Obama, in an official statement from the White House

Ÿ “Roger Ebert was Everyman with a cinematographer's eye and an artist's passion. His unique gift was the ability to communicate with everyday people about all kinds of movies and ultimately, the real values of life. ... The whole state joins me in mourning his passing. Roger Ebert was a great man. No doubt Gene Siskel is saving him a seat in the balcony upstairs.” — Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, in an official statement

Ÿ “I am deeply saddened to learn of legendary film critic Roger Ebert's passing. As a movie fan, no person appreciated his extraordinary talent as a film critic more than me. Few reach the status of a true Chicago icon. He will be missed.” — Illinois Sen. Mark Kirk, in an official statement

Ÿ “Roger and Gene together again. End of an era.” — Oprah Winfrey, via Twitter (@oprah)

Ÿ “I Miss My Dear Friend Roger Ebert.Roger Was One Of The 1st Major Movie Critics To Support My Joints,Especially Malcolm X And DTRT.-R.I.P.” — Spike Lee, director, via Twitter (@SpikeLee). Ebert named "Do the Right Thing" the best film of 1989

Ÿ “Goodbye Roger Ebert, we had fun. The balcony is closed.” — Steve Martin, actor/comedian, via Twitter (@SteveMartinToGo)

Ÿ “R.I.P. Roger Ebert. One of the greats in his field. I'm very sad.” — Albert Brooks, actor/comedian, via Twitter (@AlbertBrooks)

Ÿ “Roger Ebert was an excellent writer, a gifted artist, and as nice a guy as you'll ever meet. Sad he's gone.” — Jimmy Kimmel, late-night host, via Twitter (@jimmykimmel)

Ÿ “RIP Roger Ebert and thankyou. Grew up on the great Siskel & Ebert and loved their candid, funny, honest, very human exchanges. 2 thumbs up” — Tom Morello, Libertyville native and Rage Against the Machine guitarist, via Twitter (@tmorello)

Ÿ “R.I.P. Roger Ebert. It was a privilege to interact with you. Thank you for the support, the criticism, and the true love for the movies.” — Diablo Cody, Lemont native of Oscar-winning writer of “Juno,” via Twitter (@diablocody). Ebert named "Juno" the best film of 2007

Ÿ “A profound loss for anyone who has ever loved going to the movies. My heart goes out to Chaz and the city of Chicago. Just heartbroken” — Jason Reitman, director of “Juno,” via Twitter (@JasonReitman)

Ÿ “very sad to hear of Roger Ebert's passing. hard to imagine a world without him.” — Elijah Wood, “Lord of the Rings” star, via Twitter (@woodelijah)

Ÿ “All my love to Chaz Ebert as we mourn the loss of Roger. He had an indomitable spirit & was one of the gutsiest people I knew. RIP my friend” — Leonard Maltin, film critic and historian, via Twitter (@leonardmaltin)

Ÿ “Ebert was singular. We are all in his shadow and his debt.” — A.O. Scott, New York Times film critic, via Twitter (@aoscott)

Ÿ “My thoughts are with Roger Ebert's family. He was one of the greats and will be dearly missed.” — Wes Craven, director of “Scream” and “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” via Twitter (@wescraven)

Ÿ “Roger Ebert — an uncynical lover of the movies. Two thumbs pointing up to the sky.” — Marc Webb, director of “The Amazing Spider-Man,” via Twitter (@MarcW)

Ÿ “Roger Ebert. Millions of thumbs up for you. RIP” — Michael Moore, via Twitter (@MMFlint)