Blonde beauty Dianna Agron, who plays the role of Quinn Fabray on hit U.S. series 'Glee', has issued a statement on the tragic death of close friend and co-star, Cory Monteith.

The pair became great friends after starring on the well-loved show together, but sadly 31-year-old Monteith passed away over the weekend from an alcohol and heroin overdose. Agron described him as one of the most 'generous' and 'kind' people she has had the pleasure to know, writing:

"I have never lost a friend. In this difficult time, I am leaning on all of the wonderful memories we shared with Cory, how many ways he was able to make us smile. 'Glee' was a gift to all of us. It gave us a family in this industry. We really cut our teeth and grew up on this show."

"In playing underdogs, we learned that we had dug into the hearts of our viewers and that we could stay there. Cory is so deserving of that place in everyone's hearts. He was one of the most generous and kind people that I have ever met."

She went on praise Monteith's personable nature, adding: "He had a smart, curious mind, he was an enormous talent. He was loving to not only me, but my family. My heart goes out to his family, to Lea, to everyone that is struggling with the loss of our friend. We will miss you Cory. We will always carry a piece of you with us."