Paul Walker. (background and inset) charred remains of the smashed Prosche that claimed the actor and driver, Roger Rodas’ lives
Sunday belonged to the late 40-year-old Hollywood star Paul Walker, who tragically died in a car crash on November 30, 2021 in California. The “Fast & Furious” actor was travelling as a passenger in a new Porsche GT driven by friend and business partner Roger Rodas collided with a street light, and then a tree before bursting into flames. Investigators so far have been able to identify the high speed of the GT, as being the primary cause for the collision. Rodas, who by many websites has been described as a petrol head and a racing enthusiast, lost control of the vehicle causing the impact, killing both Walker and him.
His untimely death sent shock waves amongst his colleagues and fans worldwide. Known best for essaying the role of cop, Brian O’Conner in the speed-thrilling 12-year-old movie franchise “Fast & Furious,” Walker had already start work on the movie’s seventh installment, which has fallen into limbo following the actor’s tragic demise.
It’s an ironic passing for Walker, who’s life was littered with his passion for cars. He had raced in the now defunct racing series Redline Time Attack in a BMW M3E92. In fact, the actor was preparing for an upcoming auto show before he passed away. The self-confessed adrenaline junkie hence will most be remembered as the fast-car driving and goon-chasing O’Connor. Fans on social media attributed this almost forecasting quote to him, “If one day the speed kills me, do not cry because I was smiling.”
Beyond his movie career, Walker also starred in a National Geographic series called “Expedition Great White,” a 2010 docu drama in which he spent days on board a boat catching and tagging great white sharks off the coast of Mexico.
His “Fast & Furious” co-star Vin Diesel shared his sadness and disbelief with the world on Instagram. “Brother I will miss you very much. I am absolutely speechless. Heaven has gained a new Angel. Rest in Peace.” Ludacris also added “Your humble spirit was felt from the start, wherever you blessed your presence you always left a mark, we were like brothers & our birthdays are only 1 day apart, now You will forever hold a place in all of our hearts @paulwalker legacy will live on forever. R.I.P.” Actor Tyrese Gibson broke down after paying his tribute at the crash site memorial erected by fans. He earlier posted, “My heart is hurting so bad no one can make me believe this is real Father God I pray that you send clarity over this cause I just don’t understand My heart hurts it’s broken no one can convince me that this is real…. Prayer warriors please pray real hard for his only child, his daughter and family…#HeartOfAnAngel13YrsFamilyForeverWeJustCelebreatedYour40thBirthday….. My God… My God… I can’t believe I’m writing this”
Here in India fans took over social media with their condolences. Actor Varun Dhawan posted on Twitter, “ Can’t believe Paul walker is gone. Life is crazy. Don’t know why but this news has really depressed me. RIP Paul Walker.”
The makers of the inspired Bollywood series “Dhoom” though haven’t reacted as of yet.
The actor is survived by daughter Meadow Walker, and former partner Rebecca McBrain. Meadow shared her grief on Facebook, “When I was little he taught me to walk, taught me to smile, and taught me to never give up. I loved him even before I knew what love was. He was my hero. The REAL life hero! He will always be in my heart! It brings tears in my eyes as I write this. You’re gone, but not forgotten! R.I.P Dad!”
