Jennifer Hudson paid tribute to longtime television producer Matthew Wright, who recently died.
In an Instagram post on Monday, Nov. 2, the daytime television star said she is "so saddened by the loss" of her former producer, who helped launch her show.
"He was just back to visit on Thursday for our Halloween show! He made such a huge impact on so many people in this industry and beyond!" Hudson continued. "My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Matt!"
Wright was working remotely in Los Angeles when he died in what was described as an "unfathomable tragedy," according to a GoFundMe set up for his family. He was 52.
"If Matt has ever made you laugh, said an encouraging word right when you needed it, or ordered one too many
appetizers for the enjoyment of the whole table, now is the time to repay the favor," the fundraiser page says. "When you’re at dinner and see a sunset, know that Matt is looking down, loving you, but wildly disappointed in what you ordered."
'He was an amazing guy,' DeGeneres said
The GoFundMe has raised more than $78,000 as of Tuesday, Nov. 3, and comedian and former television host Ellen DeGeneres is among the top contributors. Wright worked on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" for more than 15 years, and even appeared on camera at times.
"He was an amazing guy. He was funny. God, he made me laugh," DeGeneres said in an Instagram video. "He would surprise me with things that he did all the time. He was smart. He was kind…everyone loved him. I loved him. It's just shocking."
DeGeneres said she and Wright were getting ready to start another project together before his sudden death.
She continued, "We're going to miss him. He is and always will be the glue to our entire family at 'The Ellen Show.'"
Contributing: Sameen Chaudhry, USA TODAY
Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jennifer Hudson addresses death of longtime TV producer: 'Saddened'
