Tributes are pouring in for US actor Bill Paxton, who has died aged 61.

The star of films including Twister and Aliens died on Saturday after complications following surgery.

Actor Peter Mayhew, who plays Chewbacca in the Star Wars movies, was among the first to pay his respects on social media.

He wrote: "He was a kind man and a true gentlemen. His light will be missed in this world."

Actor Rob Lowe tweeted: "Devastated by the sudden loss of my close friend and one of the finest actors in the business, Bill Paxton.

"Renaissance man, raconteur and uniquely American national treasure. His filmography speaks for itself. His friendship was a blessing.

"My love to Bunny, James and Lydia."

READ MORE: Actor Bill Paxton dies aged 61 after surgical complications

He added: "In his memory, on this Oscar Sunday, watch "One False Move" or "A Simple Plan" to see this lovely leading man, at his finest."

Actor Josh Gad said the loss was "beyond crushing".

"Once again, an icon, far too young, gone far too soon. Goodbye Private Hudson," he tweeted, referring to Paxton's character in Aliens.

Star Trek's William Shatner said: "Condolences to the family of Bill Paxton. I just heard the news."

Jamie Lee Curtis, who co-starred with Paxton in True Lies in 1994, was among those to express their sadness.

She wrote on Twitter: "Nooooo. Bill Paxton is gone. Such a funny, talented, loving human."

The actress also sent her love and support to the actor's family.

Actor Lou Diamond Phillips said he had recently worked with Paxton.

He tweeted: "I am stunned & saddened at the passing of Bill Paxton. I just worked with him recently. A warm and beautiful soul and a talented actor. RIP."

Full Metal Jacket star Vincent D'Onofrio said: "Bill Paxton is 1of my favorite actors. I was able 2tell him so when we met yrs ago. Paxton was wonderful in everything he did. He inspired us."

Tony Goldwyn, who plays the US president in hit television series Scandal, said: "We lost you WAY too soon."

Film-maker Ron Howard, who directed Paxton in space adventure Apollo 13, said: "Crushing. #RIPBillPaxton A gr8 talent & spirit.

"His passion contributed so much 2 #Apollo13 & all his wrk.

"We'll miss the hell out of U Bill."

His Apollo 13 co-stars Tom Hanks and Bryce Dallas Howard have also tweeted messages.

Hanks said the actor was "wonderful".

"Bill Paxton was, simply, a wonderful man. A wonderful man... Hanx," he said.

Howard, daughter of director Ron, said: "One of the kindest souls that ever was. We shared some very happy moments on Apollo 13. This is truly devastating. Love to his family."

Actress Charlize Theron tweeted: "You were a great friend to me, Bill. AND one of the finest actors to share a set with. Sending so much love to Bill Paxton's family."

Actor Ron Perlman posted a recent picture of them together.

He said: "This picture was taken 2 months ago. As you can see, Bill was alive as alive can be.

"Losing him is a gut punch. Unprocessable. Rest easy b."

Elijah Wood said: "What a lovely, warm and kind human. So sad to hear of Bill Paxton's passing."

Will And Grace star Debra Messing tweeted: "So tragic the passing of Bill Paxton. Heartbreaking. What a talent, with so many more years of art to share with us. My love to his family."