Julie Andrews and Tony Walton in 1962.Photo: Earl Leaf/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty
Julie Andrewsis mourning thedeath of her ex-husband Tony Walton.
The Oscar winner, 86, exclusively tells PEOPLE, “Tony was my dearest and oldest friend. He taught me to see the world with fresh eyes and his talent was simply monumental. I will miss him more than I can say.”
“We are a huge, blended family and as we hold each other close, we take comfort knowing that he lives on, not only in his children and grandchildren, but in the memories of thousands who cherished his warmth and generosity and the glorious gifts he gave us,” she adds. “Gifts of theatre and film, ballet and opera, the graphic arts and illustration.”
“He was a Titan of the Arts. A doting father and husband… and beloved beyond measure,” Andrews concludes.
Walton and Andrews were married from 1959 to 1968, and share one daughter,Emma Walton Hamilton.
According toThe Hollywood Reporter,Hamilton confirmed the news of her father’s death, noting he died Wednesday evening in his New York City Upper West Side apartment following complications related to a stroke. He was 87.
Walton’s career accolades includeTony,EmmyandAcademy Awards. His work in the musicalsPippin(1973) andGuys and Dolls(1992), plus the playHouse of Blue Leaves(1986), earned him Tony Awards.
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He also won an Oscar for the 1979 musical dramaAll That Jazz, and an Emmy for his work in 1985’sDeath of a Salesmantelevision film adaptation.
Additionally, Walton’s work inThe Wiz(1978),Murder on the Orient Express(1974) andMary Poppins(1964) earned nominations from the Academy Awards.
In a 2008 interview withPlaybill, Walton opened up about mastering the craft of set and costume design.
RELATED VIDEO: Costume Designer and Julie Andrews' Ex-Husband Tony Walton Reunites with Mary Poppins Costume
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Walton said he attempted “to get the palette — and the feel of it — whether it’s crispy or soft, whatever the flavor may be, before I get into any of the essential nuts and bolts. Generally, of course, it’s about how best to tell the tale.”
source: people.com
