Luke Perry, famous among the rodeo community for his role as Lane Frost in the movie 8 Seconds, has died at age 52. Perry was hospitalized last week when he suffered a massive stroke and passed away on Monday. 

Rodeo competitors have been expressing their appreciation for the actor who they said put a lot of effort into playing the part of the late Lane Frost with care and authenticity.

The actor was also known for his work on the hit show “Beverley Hills 90210”. CNN spoke to his publicist Arnold Robinson for more details.

"He was surrounded by his children Jack and Sophie, fiancé Wendy Madison Bauer, ex-wife Minnie Sharp, mother Ann Bennett, stepfather Steve Bennett, brother Tom Perry, sister Amy Coder and other close family and friends,” Robinson said to CNN. "The family appreciates the outpouring of support and prayers that have been extended to Luke from around the world, and respectfully request privacy in this time of great mourning. No further details will be released at this time.”

For all the little rodeo kids who grew up riding the couch arm, jumping off and doing Lane Frost's signature two-hand wave to the crowd, we will forever be grateful for the care Perry took to bring his story to life.