Jane Fonda reacts to the death of her brother, Peter Fonda

Peter Fonda died Friday after suffering respiratory failure from lung cancer at the age of 79.

The younger brother of Jane Fonda, best known for his roles in "Easy Rider” and “Dirty Mary Crazy Larry," gained popularity in the late 1960s and early '70s,

SEE ALSO: 'Easy Rider' Peter Fonda dead at 79: 'Please raise a glass to freedom'

Jane broke her silence about her brother's tragic death, saying, “I am very sad. He was my sweet-hearted baby brother. The talker of the family. I have had beautiful alone time with him these last days. He went out laughing.”

The Fonda family also issued an exclusive statement to People Magazine. “It is with deep sorrow that we share the news that Peter Fonda has passed away," the statement read. "He passed away peacefully on Friday morning, August 16 at 11:05am at his home in Los Angeles surrounded by family. The official cause of death was respiratory failure due to lung cancer. In one of the saddest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our hearts. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy.”

“And, while we mourn the loss of this sweet and gracious man, we also wish for all to celebrate his indomitable spirit and love of life,” the statement concluded. “In honor of Peter, please raise a glass to freedom.”

Kate Hudson, Kathy Griffin, Larry King and Nancy Sinatra were among the A-list celebrities who paid tribute to the late actor's death. Check out their reactions below.