In a heartfelt tribute, Clint Eastwood, the legendary actor and filmmaker, announced the passing of his longtime partner, Christina Sandera, at the age of 61. The Oscar-winning icon, known for his stoic demeanor and rugged roles, revealed a softer side as he expressed his profound loss. “Christina was a lovely, caring woman,” Eastwood shared via The Hollywood Reporter on Friday. “I will miss her very much.”

The couple, who had been together since 2014, shared a deep bond that began at Eastwood’s Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, where Sandera worked as a hostess. Their relationship blossomed from those humble beginnings, and they made their red carpet debut at the 2015 Academy Awards, capturing the hearts of many.

Despite his fame, Eastwood has always valued his privacy, and his spokesperson has indicated that no further information about Sandera’s passing will be released. Page Six reached out to Eastwood’s representative but received no additional comment.

Christina Sandera’s presence in Eastwood’s life marked a period of stability and companionship. Before meeting Sandera, Eastwood had a series of high-profile relationships and marriages. He was married to journalist Dina Ruiz from 1996 until their divorce in 2014. His first marriage was to model Maggie Johnson, whom he wed in 1953. Although they separated in 1964, their divorce was not finalized until 1984.

Eastwood’s family life has been as eventful as his career. He fathered eight children with six different women, each bringing unique stories and relationships into his life. With his first wife, Maggie Johnson, he had son Kyle, 56, and daughter Alison, 52. His daughter Laurie, 69, was born to an unidentified woman, and daughter Kimber, 60, was born to stuntwoman Roxanne Tunis.

During his marriage to Dina Ruiz, Eastwood welcomed daughter Morgan, now 27. His relationship with flight attendant Jacelyn Reeves resulted in the birth of son Scott, 38, and daughter Kathryn, 36. Eastwood and actress Frances Fisher had a daughter, Francesca, now 30, in 1993.

Eastwood’s legacy extends beyond his impressive filmography and numerous awards; it includes a large and diverse family that has grown through the years. His children have followed various paths, with some, like Scott Eastwood, stepping into the spotlight and pursuing acting careers.

As the family mourns the loss of Christina Sandera, the entertainment world joins them in honoring her memory. Sandera, though not a public figure, was a significant presence in Eastwood’s life, offering him companionship and support during his twilight years. Her passing marks a poignant moment in the life of a man who has given so much to the world of cinema.

Clint Eastwood’s fans, friends, and colleagues will undoubtedly rally around him during this difficult time, offering their condolences and celebrating the love and happiness Sandera brought into his life. As Eastwood continues to forge ahead, his tribute to Christina Sandera reminds us all of the power of love and the inevitable sorrow that accompanies such deep connections.