There has been an outpouring of grief on social media today after it was announced that actress Alexis Arquette had passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning. Arquette, who appeared in films such as Pulp Fiction and The Wedding Singer, was 47 and had been suffering with an undisclosed illness. People Magazine has stated that a source close to the family has suggested that her cause of death was through complications from AIDS, however this remains unconfirmed. Her brother Richmond released a statement saying that she died peacefully, surrounded by her siblings and listening to David Bowie’s Starman.
As well as appearing in a number of films and tv series, Arquette was a vocal activist for transgender rights. She appeared in the 2007 documentary Alexis Arquette: She’s My Brother, which focused on her personal transition story. She had compassion and empathy for others, particularly those in less accepting situations, saying her own transition was easier because she was from a famous family.
In a statement released by the family, Arquette’s dedication to the trans community was noted. “Despite the fact that there are few parts for trans actors, she refused to play roles that were demeaning or stereotypical. She was a vanguard in the fight for understanding and acceptance for all trans people.”
Alexis Arquette was remembered by friends and family on Twitter:
Read Patricia Arquette‘s press release on behalf of her family here:
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