When Rolling Stones star Charlie Watts passed away, Kevin Bacon was one of the many celebrities around the world to pay his respects.
Watts passed away at the age of 80. Watts was an acclaimed jazz bandleader when he was stricken with throat cancer in 2004. He received extensive treatment and made a full recovery. His return to health allowed him to resume touring with both the Stones and his jazz band. However, Watts had announced that he would not tour with the Stones in 2021 because of an undefined health issue.
Then on August 24, 2021, Charlie’s passing was announced by his publicist, Bernard Doherty. According to Bernard, Watts died in the hospital where he was surrounded by his family.
The Footloose actor paid a moving tribute to him on social media. Taking to Instagram, Kevin Bacon shared a video of himself from his family home, where he reflected on Charlie’s life and how the Rolling Stones had created such a huge influence on him growing up.
On his IG post, he said:
“About 1966 my dad went over to London and asked somebody ‘what are the kids listening to?’ He picked up a couple of forty fives and bought them back for my older brother Mike and I remember him playing them and listening to that sound from the Rolling Stones and thinking ‘this is changing my life’ at seven years old. I’ve seen the Stones more than any other band live and Charlie was not a flashy drummer but a tasty drummer and an absolute master. He will be missed. Rest in the pocket Charlie.”
Following her dad’s post, daughter Sosie Bacon was one of the first ones to comment on her dad’s post. She simply commented with a sad face to show her support.
Then fans from all across the globe also commented and showed their support. One of them writes: “We have lost a legend!” Another follower commented saying: “My favourite Stone, such a loss.” This user added: “Great words from an amazing actor.”
Also, paying tribute to the star, his publicist Bernard Doherty said: “It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts. He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family. Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also, as a member of The Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation.”
He added, “We kindly request that the privacy of his family, band members and close friends is respected at this difficult time.”
Charlie’s bandmates – Mick Jagger, Ronnie Wood, and Keith Richards, all paid tributes to the star shortly after the news was announced.
Tributes have also come from other celebrities including The Beatles’ Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Ringo Starr. Sir Paul even described Watts as “a lovely guy” and “a fantastic drummer” who was “steady as a rock.”
Sir Elton John also wrote on Twitter: “A very sad day. Charlie Watts was the ultimate drummer. The most stylish of men, and such brilliant company.”
The sad news of his passing came just less than a month after the 80-year-old underwent emergency surgery. He was forced to pull out of the band’s US tour and this saddened his fans. Still, they understood because this is what’s best for Charlie during that time.
