NBCSoleil Moon Frye spent a good portion of her younger years with the late George Gaynes—who passed away on Monday—while filming their show Punky Brewster.
In the popular sitcom, which aired from 1984-1988, a grumpy foster parent named Henry Warnimont (Gaynes) rescues Punky Brewster (Moon Frye) and her dog, Brandon, and they end up teaching him how to lighten up and enjoy life a little more.
At just 12 years old, Moon Frye built a special bond with Gaynes during their time filming the show, and thus, after learning about his passing, she couldn't help but pay tribute to him.
The universe just gained a gigantic star. You will be in my heart and soul always & forever.
? soleil moon frye (@moonfrye) February 17, 2016
Your little Punky
RIP George Gaynes
"The universe just gained a gigantic star," she wrote on Twitter. "You will be in my heart and soul always & forever. Your little Punky RIP George Gaynes."
Moon Frye also took to Instagram to share an adorable throwback photo from their days on the show together. She wrote a similar message: "When I reflect on some of the most joyous moments in my life, they were shared with this incredible man. The universe just gained a gigantic star. You will be in my heart and soul always & forever. Your little Punky RIP George Gaynes Love to your family."
Meanwhile, Gaynes passed away in his daughter's home in North Bend, Wash. on Monday at 98 years old.
He is survived by his wife, Allyn Ann McLerie, as well as his two children, Matthew Gaynes and Iya Gaynes.