The cast of 9-1-1 is mourning the loss of crew member Rico Priem, who died in a car accident after a 14-hour overnight shift. He was 66.
Angela Bassett, the show's star, expressed her deep sorrow and offered condolences to Priem's family at a recent Disney/ABC event.
Bassett emphasized the impact of Priem's death on the cast and crew, marking the first time they have faced such a loss.
"We just had to take a moment, just take time and take a moment. We thought it was important to come together and have whatever bit of service and offer whatever we can do to his family because we know that we'll miss him but we know they will miss him even more."
Cast member Aisha Hinds also shared her grief on social media, praising Priem's dedication and loyalty to his craft.
The crash occurred when Priem's car left the roadway, went up an embankment, and flipped onto its roof. He was pronounced dead at the scene, and the cause of the accident is under investigation.
The studio behind 9-1-1, 20th Television, and the AMPTP both issued statements expressing their condolences to Priem's family and friends.
Hinds' heartfelt tribute underscored the vital role of crew members in the entertainment industry, calling them the unsung heroes whose efforts are essential to the success of every production.
People commented on Hinds' post, sending prayers for his family and the 9-1-1 crew and cast.
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Members of Priem's union also wrote in with thanks for her support.
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Others commented on the importance of the crew to the filming process.
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Many people thanked Hinds for putting their feelings into words.
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As Hinds' message noted, the tragedy highlights the entertainment industry's notoriously long hours.
Many people continued that conversation in the comments.
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The GoFundMe for Priem's memorial has already been fulfilled twice over.