Canadians offer outpouring of sympathy after death of Christopher Hyndman

"We extend our deepest sympathies to Steven, family, friends and colleagues; our thoughts are with them all."

Hyndman was the co-host of CBC's Steven and Chris

CBC News Posted: Aug 04, 2015 1:52 PM EDT | Last Updated: August 4, 2015

Christopher Hyndman was co-host of CBC's Steven and Chris. (Steven and Chris/Facebook)

Canadians are expressing their sympathy in the wake of the death ofChristopher Hyndman.

The co-host of CBC TV'sSteven and Chris was found without vital signs in a laneway inToronto on Monday night. He was 49 years old.

Co-workers, friends and fans across the country were quick to share their condolences.

Some noted the loss for Newfoundland, where Hyndman grew up.

So very sad to hear of the passing of Chris Hyndman. He was always laughing, always smiling. A great Newfoundland character.
—@rickmercer

Very sorry to hear of the passing of Chris Hyndman. A loss for #CBC and for Newfoundland and Labrador as well.
—@markcritch

Many commented on the joy he took in life.

Incredibly sad to hear that Chris Hyndman has passed away. He was a friend and a man who lived his life so fully and with such joy. RIP.
—@ArleneDickinson

Just hearing that Chris Hyndman, from CBCs Steven & Chris has passed away. Im stunned and sad. He was such a great, fun guy.
—@BrentButt

And how kind he was to others.

BREAKING NEWS: Oh my goodness! Chris Hyndman, Star Of "Steven & Chris" has died. He was always very kind. He will be missed. I'm shocked...
—@torontojj

Others noted his importance in developing the reality genre.

You don't have to like reality TV to appreciate the importance of Steven and Chris.
—@henderstu

And how good he was at his job.

I've appeared on Steven and Chris twice. Chris was a total pro. I was in awe of how he handled the segment, the audience, crew. #RIP
—@meredithheron

So sad. You were a joy to work with Chris. #RIP https://t.co/uJfvgn46xj
—@marksylvain

He was a big part of growing up for a lot of Canadians.

Grew up and loved watching Designer Guys and Steven and Chris. Such sad news. http://t.co/sHUDXiGpeY
—@christine__t

Heartbreaking. I remember being excited as a teen to meet these guys years ago! http://t.co/F6mA6XM0IY #RIPChrisHyndman #StevenandChris
—@jbillie

And a frequent companion to others.

So sad to hear of Chris Hyndman's passing. Steven and Chris were frequent companions on insomnia-ridden nights. Thanks for all the joy.
—@Kelly_Boaz

There has been an outpouring of support for Hyndman's spouseSteven Sabados.

#Condolences to #CBC, Steven Sabados on the passing of Chris Hyndman, sending love from @Newfoundland.
—@MyrtlehCa

It's a sad day at the office hearing the news of #ChrisHyndman passing. #RIP Stay strong Steven. :'(
—@banubehfar

My condolences to Steven Sabados, their families, friends and crew from @stevenandchris on the passing of Chris Hyndman. Such sad news.
—@IN_BC_CAN

Many have expressed how important he has beento the LGBT community.

Deepest sympathies with Steven Sabados today after the passing of Chris Hyndman. Both great people involved in gay causes and charity here.
—@travmyers

Sad to hear of Chris Hyndman's death. He & Steven were so nice to me when I met them http://t.co/gmxfdKqBbA & have been gay icons for years
—@robsalerno

He will be missed.

Devastated to hear about Christopher Hyndman. Nicest man in the world.
—@noizangel

A memorial has been set up in the atrium of the CBC's Toronto broadcasting centre for anyone wishing to leave messages, mementos, or flowers to pay tribute to Chris Hyndman. In addition, CBC plans a celebration of his life at a later date.