Silvio Horta death: America Ferrera and Vanessa Williams pay tribute to late Ugly Betty creator

Stars of Ugly Betty have paid tribute to the writer and creator of the show, Silvio Horta, after his death at the age of 45.

Horta, 45, was reportedly found dead in Miami on Tuesday. A representative for the TV producer confirmed his death but did not provide further details.

The comedic show chronicled the life of Betty Suarez, who was made a personal assistant of a young fashion magazine editor Daniel Meade, despite her disinterest in fashion trends.

It ran from 2006 to 2010 and scooped Horta numerous awards and accolades.

Paying tribute to Horta, Ugly Betty actress America Ferrera said: “I’m stunned and heartbroken to hear the devastating news of Ugly Betty creator, Silvio Horta’s death. 

“His talent and creativity brought me and so many others such joy & light. I’m thinking of his family and loved ones who must be in so much pain right now- and of the whole Ugly Betty family who feel this loss so deeply.”

She accompanied the tribute with a group photograph of the Ugly Betty stars at the Golden Globes with Horta.

Vanessa Williams, who starred on the show as Wilhelmina Slater, wrote on Instagram: “till in shock after hearing the tragic news of our #uglybetty creator #silviohorta. His creativity and passion will be missed by so many of us that worked with him. May he Rest In Peace.”

Michael Urie, who played Wilhelmina’s assistant Marc St James, wrote on Twitter: “I will be forever indebted to this sweet, brilliant man.”

Christopher Gorham, who played Betty’s boyfriend and accountant in the series Henry Grubstick, added: “Silvio Horta gave me two of the greatest opportunities in my career with Jake 2.0 and Ugly Betty. 

“I will be forever grateful for his creativity, his enormous heart, and his friendship. His family was his world and my heart goes out to them tonight. Let’s all take care of each other.”