Actor Steve Carell took a moment to reflect on his first meeting with the celebrated actor Alan Arkin, who had won both an Academy Award and a Tony Award and was 89 years old at the time of his death.
"When I first met Alan, he gave me a business card," he told PEOPLE. "It said ‘Alan Arkin: Actor Director, Musician. Can drive stick shift. Owns own tux.’ He was my idol, my friend, and I loved him."
Although Steve Carell and Alan Arkin co-starred in The Incredible Burt Wonderstone in 2013, Arkin's fans may recall that he first acted alongside the comedian in the 2006 dramedy Little Miss Sunshine, which depicted a dysfunctional family's road trip.
Arkin portrayed Edwin Hoover, the family's grandfather, and his performance earned him his sole Academy Award.
Arkin’s death was announced by his sons in a statement to PEOPLE, "Our father was a uniquely talented force of nature, both as an artist and a man," they said. "A loving husband, father, grand and great grandfather, he was adored and will be deeply missed."
Little Miss Sunshine co-star Abigail Breslin also paid tribute to the actor, saying, “Alan Arkin was one of the most kindest, gentlest and hilarious actors I ever worked with.”
“We may not have been related in real life but he will always be Grandpa in my heart, I send my deepest sympathies to his wife Suzanne and his family.”