Jennifer Lopez expressed sorrow over the loss of her “partner in crime” and Shades of Blue co-star, Ray Liotta, who passed away on Thursday.

Veteran actor Ray Liotta has died, and the news has fans across the world in mourning along with many of those who personally knew Goodfellas star. Jennifer Lopez was someone who had gotten to know Liotta quite well as his co-star on the crime drama series Shades of Blue, which aired on NBC for three seasons from 2016-18. Taking to Instagram, Lopez posted a touching tribute for Liotta. Along with a statement, the post includes photos with Liotta long with a video clip from Shades of Blue. You can see the tribute post below.

“Ray was my partner in crime on Shades of Blue,” Lopez writes. “The first thing that comes to mind is he was so kind to my children. Ray was the epitome of a tough guy who was all mushy on the inside … I guess that’s what made him such a compelling actor to watch. The original Goodfella.”

Remembering their time together on the show, Lopez added, “We shared some intense moments on set those three years! When I first heard he took the job on Shades of Blue, I was thrilled, and the first time we walked on set to do our first scene together there was an electric spark and a mutual respect and we both knew this was going to be good. We enjoyed doing our scenes together and I felt lucky to have him there to work with and learn from.”

“Like all artists he was complicated, sincere, honest and so very emotional,” Lopez explains. “Like a raw nerve, he was so accessible and so in touch in his acting and I will always remember our time together fondly. We lost a great today … RIP RAY … it’s so sad to lose you what seems way to soon … I will remember you always. Sending so much love and strength to your daughter Karsen, your family and all your loved ones.”


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Ray Liotta Meant a Lot to So Many People

Ray Liotta has long been revered for his acting, with his roles including Field of Dreams, Goodfellas, Hannibal, Blow, and more recently, The Many Saints of Newark. The actor had always shined in his performances, serving as an inspiration for his contemporaries in show business. Many were quick to pay tribute when the news broke that Liotta passed away, showing how respected and appreciated he has always been in Hollywood.

Liotta’s death was shocking as there were no apparent warning signs. He had been on location in the Dominican Republic to shoot his next movie Dangerous Waters when he reportedly died in his sleep. An exact cause of death hasn’t yet been determined. He was 67 years old.


Posthumously, Liotta can be seen in other films beyond Dangerous Waters, as he had been working prolifically up until the end. This includes the Elizabeth Banks thriller Cocaine Bear and a Charlie Day comedy yet to be titled. It will be bittersweet for fans to catch these final performances as it will mean saying goodbye to a wonderful actor. Rest in peace, Ray Liotta.

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