Stars, former Playmates react to death of Hugh Hefner

LOS ANGELES (AP) - Reaction to the death of Playboy founder Hugh Hefner:

- "I am me because of you. You taught me everything important about freedom and respect. Outside of my family you were the most important person in my life. You gave me my life." - former Playboy model Pamela Anderson in a lengthy tribute posted to Instagram.

- "Hef changed my life. He made me the person I am today. I couldn't be more thankful for our friendship and our time together. I will miss him so much but he will be in my heart forever." - former Hefner girlfriend and Playboy model Kendra Wilkinson in a statement.

- "RIP #Hef Thank you for being a revolutionary and changing so many people's lives, especially mine. I hope I made you proud." - television personality and former Playboy model Jenny McCarthy on Twitter.

- "RIP to the legendary Hugh Hefner! I'm so honored to have been a part of the Playboy team! You will be greatly missed! Love you Hef! Xoxo" - reality star Kim Kardashian on Twitter.

- "Hugh Hefner was a strong supporter of the civil rights movement. We shall never forget him. May he Rest In Peace." - civil rights leader The Rev. Jesse Jackson on Twitter.

- "I had a number of great conversations ... with Hugh Hefner. Was such an interesting man. True legend. What an end of an era!" - actor Rob Lowe on Twitter.

- "thank u for picking me and Bringing me into the magical world of Playboy ! I just can't stop crying and I can't imagine how many bunnies are crying for u too. U are a class act and I will always have gratitude for your kindness" - actress-model Carmen Electra on Instagram.

- "One of the nicest men I've ever known. Godspeed, Hugh Hefner." - singer Nancy Sinatra on Twitter.

- "Hugh Hefner was a GIANT in publishing, journalism, free speech & civil rights. He was a true original, and he was my friend. Rest well Hef." - broadcaster Larry King on Twitter.

- "Rest in peace #HughHefner - he will forever be remembered as the Hollywood legend who lived life to the fullest." - television host Ryan Seacrest on Twitter.

- "Hugh Hefner put me in Playboy & ignited my career. I am forever indebted, Hef. You will forever live on as an icon of epic proportions." - actress and former Playboy model Donna D'Errico on Twitter.

- "1st met him months B4 #SW opened-Expected stereotyped swinger/wildman not the kind-thoughtful loyal friend he always was to ML & me." - actor Mark Hamill on Twitter.

- "We've lost a true explorer, a man who had a keen sense of the future. We learned a lot from you Mr. Hefner." - writer-producer Norman Lear on Twitter.

- "I met Hugh Hefner at the Playboy mansion. He was very nice to my mom. Don't ask." - actress Kat Dennings on Twitter

- "So sad to hear the news about Hugh Hefner. He was a #Legend, innovator & one of a kind. We had so many fun & incredible memories together. I will miss him dearly." - socialite Paris Hilton on Facebook.

- "when I did playboy he spoke words to me that affected my direction. he was a man the room would stop for when he entered" - singer Aubrey O'Day on Twitter.

- "Wow...just read the news. Rest In Peace Hugh Hefner. Your legacy and soul shall live on!" - singer Charlie Puth on Twitter

- "A great man, entrepreneur and innovator. Your legacy lives on." - KISS frontman Gene Simmons on Twitter.

- "If you were raised without a mom Hugh Hefner probably changed your life. Champion of great writing & freedom of speech & always kind to me." - actor Tom Arnold on Twitter.

- "RIP Hugh Hefner I went to so many of his parties at the Playboy mansion it was legendary you will never be forgotten." -rapper Juicy J on Twitter.