The man behind music to such films as 'Titanic' and 'Braveheart', James Horner, is feared dead after a plane registered to him crashed.
It is believed he died after the plane he was travelling in crashed in Southern California yesterday.
Horner (61) scored more than 100 films - including blockbusters like 'Avatar', 'Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan' and 'A Beautiful Mind'.
He had won two Academy Awards for his work, as well as receiving several other nominations.
The two-seater single-engine S312 Tucano plane was reported to be one of several owned by the composer.
The identity of the pilot has not yet officially been released.
Jorge Rubio is deputy director of airports in Ventura County. He has been speaking to CBS.
Tributes have flooded in from the world of showbiz on Twitter:
To work with James Horner was one of the biggest moments of my life. He was such a kind soul, I'm so saddened
— Leona Lewis (@leonalewis) June 23, 2015
My sincere condolences to the family, loved ones and friends of James Horner. #abeautifulmind
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) June 23, 2015
Incredibly saddened to hear about the loss of James Horner. I grew up loving his work. He leaves behind a spectacular musical legacy.
— Seth MacFarlane (@SethMacFarlane) June 23, 2015
Brilliant Composer James Horner, friend & collaborator on 7 movies has tragically died in a plane crash. My heart aches for his loved ones.
— Ron Howard (@RealRonHoward) June 23, 2015
I"m so sad to hear about James Horner..He scored the first movie I did..Star Trek 2...great composer..great person...huge loss
— Kirstie Alley (@kirstiealley) June 23, 2015
Celine Dion - who performed 'My Heart Will Go On' in 'Titanic' - says he played "an important part" in her career, offering sympathy to his family and friends.
