The Most Touching Celebrity Twitter Tributes to David Bowie

The world was shocked on January 11, 2016, when news hit of David Bowie’s death the day before. A brief statement told fans that the iconic musician had been fighting cancer for a year and a half and that he “died peacefully” while “surrounded by his family.” Bowie was perhaps best known for his glitzy stage persona of Ziggy Stardust as well as being an innovative performer with dozens of hit records to his name, including “Starman,” “Rebel Rebel,” and “Let’s Dance.” Indeed, his influence was so significant that an incredible number of entertainment figures who had worked with Bowie, or simply been inspired by him, took to Twitter to express their deep sense of loss.

1. Duncan Jones

The most heartbreaking tweet of all came from David Bowie’s son, movie director Duncan Jones. With rumors of his famous father’s death flying around the Internet, Jones took to Twitter to inform the world that yes, the news sadly was true – and shared a beautiful photo of dad and son together in the ’70s. In 2021 he also tweeted, “It’s remarkable and delightful that Dad is still so clearly loved by so many.”

2. Mick Jagger

Mick Jagger and David Bowie were not only musical collaborators but also good pals. So in honor of their friendship, and in tribute to his dearly departed buddy, the Rolling Stones frontman posted a throwback picture of himself and Bowie in happier times. He informed the world that he “will never forget” his “true original” friend.

3. Madonna

Madonna was “devastated” by the death of David Bowie and uploaded several tweets and images paying tribute to him. She also later penned a longer statement on Facebook thanking him for “chang[ing] the course of [her] life.” The singer wrote, “His photographs are hanging all over my house today. He was so chic and beautiful and elegant. So ahead of his time. Thank you, David Bowie. I owe you a lot. The world will miss you.”

4. Paul McCartney

Paul McCartney’s sincere message about David Bowie included a snap taken by Linda McCartney of the two music legends together in 1985. It’s clear from McCartney’s words that Bowie meant a lot to him. The full message read: "Very sad news to wake up to on this rainy morning. David was a great star, and I treasure the moments we had together. His music played a very strong part in British musical history, and I’m proud to think of the huge influence he has had on people all around the world."