Ali McGraw and Ryan O’Neal’s journey began on the set of ’70s Love Story, and they have maintained a close relationship all these years. Following Ryan’s death on the 8th of December, Ali released a lengthy statement addressing the enormous impact the late actor made in her life and how she was not “surprised” by his death.
“Working with Ryan all those years ago was one of the great experiences of my film career, and we remained friends ever after,” Ali wrote in the beginning of the condolence message. “He was a skilled actor, charming and funny too. I know that a huge part of my success was due to his generosity as my co-star.”
Ali knew about Ryan’s struggles
Ryan didn’t enjoy a smooth ride concerning his health; he was diagnosed with Leukemia in 2001, prostate cancer in 2012, and had a back surgery in 2017— all of these Ali was privy to.
RELATED: Ryan O’Neal Posed With His Rarely-Seen Daughter To Mark 82nd Birthday 7 Months Prior To His Death
“It has been devastating to know just how ill Ryan has been for many years now, and I was not surprised to learn that he had passed away yesterday morning,” she continued in her statement.
Ali McGraw can never forget him
Despite her lack of shock towards his death, she was glad Ryan was with good people during his final moments, “Thankfully, he was surrounded by his son Patrick and a small group of lifelong, close friends. My heart goes out to all four of his children and to the people who loved him most,” Ali admitted.
“I shall miss him and the fun we shared, and I pray that he will find peace at last,” the 84-year-old actress ended the statement.