Garry Marshall, the prolific producer/director/writer, died yesterday from pneumonia complications following a stroke. He was 81.
Marshall had a major hand in several beloved TV and film hits from the last few decades. He was the director of Pretty Woman, Runaway Bride, and The Princess Diaries; he created or co-created Happy Days, Laverne and Shirley, Mork & Mindy, and the first The Odd Couple TV series; and he wrote for shows such as The Dick Van Dyke Show and The Lucy Show.
In short, his influence on the television sitcom and rom-com genres is undeniable.
Several stars have tweeted their appreciation for Marshall, many of them crediting him for starting their careers.

GARRY MARSHALL Rest In Peace .. Thank you for my professional life. Thank you for your loyalty , friendship and generosity .

— Henry Winkler (@hwinkler4real) July 20, 2016

Our beloved Garry Marshall has passed. Our family will miss him so very much. RIP dear one. pic.twitter.com/F7y3RkLn1Z

— Goldie Hawn (@goldiehawn) July 20, 2016

RIP #GarryMarshall whose humor & humanity inspired. He was a world class boss & mentor whose creativity and leadership meant a ton to me.

— Ron Howard (@RealRonHoward) July 20, 2016

Garry Marshall hired me at 15 years old. He gave my wife her start at 18, as a makeup artist. He changed our lives. And MANY others. #love

— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) July 20, 2016

Garry Marshall was one of the greats. He connected us all through joy, laughter, compassion & kindness. He also gave me my very 1st job. ?‘?

— Mandy Moore (@TheMandyMoore) July 20, 2016