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Cameron: "I Am Deeply Appreciative"

Cameron Diaz issues statement remembering late father; production shuts down on her latest movie while she mourns

By Marcus Errico Apr 16, 2008 7:24 PMTags
Cameron DiazINFGoff.com

Cameron Diaz is in mourning.

Production has halted on her current film, My Sister's Keeper, as the actress has cleared her schedule to regroup with her family following the loss of her father.

Emilio Diaz died Tuesday from complications due to pneumonia. He was 58.

"My mom, sister and I are deeply appreciative of the overwhelming outpouring of love and support during this difficult time for us and all of our family," the actress said in a statement through publicist Brad Cafarelli.

"My dad was loved by so many people and his humor and spirit will always live on in our hearts."

Diaz and sister Chimene huddled at their parents' home in Seal Beach, Calif., with other family members and a rotating group of friends.

A neighbor and family friend described Cameron as "distressed," and said that her mother, Billie, is in "deep mourning."

"Their privacy should be respected," added the friend, who asked not to be identified.

Meanwhile, sources tell E! News that Diaz, 35, has canceled an appearance at an Elton John-hosted party Wednesday night celebrating British GQ.

Diaz graces the cover of the latest issue.

—Additional reporting by Matt Donnelly