Jude Law On Anthony Minghella: "I Shall Miss Him Hugely"

With Hollywood still reeling from the sudden death of Anthony Minghella early this morning, the late director's friends are starting to step forward to pay tribute - starting with frequent collaborator Jude Law.

In a statement given to People, Law - who was directed by Minghella inThe Talented Mr. Ripley, Cold Mountain, and Breaking And Entering - expressed shock and sadness over Minghella's untimely passing, claiming to have "come to value him more as a friend than as a colleague."

"He was a brilliantly talented writer and director who wrote dialogue that was a joy to speak and then put it onto the screen in a way that always looked effortless," Law told the mag. "He made work feel like fun. He was a sweet, warm, bright and funny man who was interested in everything from football to opera, films, music, literature, people and most of all his family whom he adored and to whom I send my thoughts and love. I shall miss him hugely."