Acclaimed director and producer Jean-Marc Vallée, who counts Big Little Lies and  Dallas Buyers Club amongst some of his hugely successful projects, died suddenly this past weekend at age 58.

Vallée’s representative Bumble Ward confirmed to The Times that he passed away from a heart attack on Christmas day while holidaying at his cabin outside Quebec City.

Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon, who both served as executive producers on Big Little Lies, have shared their condolences on social media.

Taking to Instagram this morning, Kidman posted four touching images featuring both her and Vallée, along with a heartfelt caption.

“It’s hard to imagine someone as vital, energetic and present as Jean-Marc being gone. I’m shattered. He was at the center of my creative universe and I can’t overstate his significance to me.

“Jean-Marc was not only responsible for some of the most rewarding professional experiences of my career, but his friendship, kindness and love were an inspiring force I will carry with me. I will always cherish those nights filming above the crashing waves of Big Sur… It doesn’t get better than that.

“I am forever grateful for my time shared with this extraordinary human. Forever Jean Marc,” Kidman posted.

Witherspoon also shared a short but touching tribute in the early hours of this morning, Australian time.

“My heart is broken. My friend. I love you,” the actress tweeted alongside a link to a New York Times article reporting his passing.

As well as directing Dallas Buyers Club and the first season of Big Little Lies, Vallée directed popular TV mini series Sharp Objects, which received eight Emmys, and the movie WILD, which recieved three Oscar nominations.

Before his death, he was attached to direct another Limited Series for HBO, Gorilla and the Bird. Vallée is survived by his sons, Alex and Emile, and siblings Marie-Josée Vallée, Stéphane Tousignant and Gérald Vallée.

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