Steve Bing, who rose to fame through his work in film as well has his relationship with actress Elizabeth Hurley, has sadly died. The 55-year-old producer and writer, father of Elizabeth’s son Damian, is reported to have killed himself at his apartment building in California on Monday, leading to tributes from friends, peers and Elizabeth herself.
Posting on Instagram, Elizabeth wrote: 'I am saddened beyond belief that my ex Steve is no longer with us. It is a terrible end. Our time together was very happy and I’m posting these pictures because although we went through some tough times, it’s the good, wonderful memories of a sweet, kind man that matter. In the past year we had become close again. We last spoke on our son’s 18th birthday. This is devastating news and I thank everyone for their lovely messages.'
Steve’s career highlights included producing beloved children’s film The Polar Express, hit comedy Get Carter and acclaimed Rolling Stones concert documentary Shine a Light. He was also a prolific political donor and counted Bill Clinton as a close friend.
‘I love Steve very much’, Bill said via statement. 'He had a big heart, and he was willing to do anything he could for the people and causes he believed in. I will miss him and his enthusiasm more than I can say, and I hope he's finally found peace.'
Rosanna Arquette added her voice to the tributes. 'This is very sad and disturbing news,' she tweeted. 'Rest In Peace, Steve.'
Bing’s publicist Michelle Bega told Sky News that she was 'overwhelmed trying to process this unbelievable and sad event.'
Steve’s success in film and philanthropy – he raised millions for cultural and political efforts - had not brought him public attention, but this changed when he enjoyed a relationship with Elizabeth, star of Bedazzled, between 2000 and 2001. This culminated in her pregnancy and the birth of their son Damian, now 18. It was an acrimonious break-up. He also has a daughter, Kira Kerkorian, a result of a relationship with tennis player Lisa Bonder.
Reports also state that he was friends with Mick Jagger and Warren Beatty. He began his career in his teens, when he inherited $600m from his grandfather, dropped out of Stanford University and founded Shangri-La Entertainment.
Samaritans, which offers a free listening service, can be contacted via its website or by phone on 116 123.