As the world grapples with the tragedy of the Boston Marathon bombings, many stars expressed their sadness and paid tribute to the victims and families affected by the explosions.
Mark Wahlberg was in a somber mood after what struck his hometown in Boston.
“It’s just so upsetting,” he told Page Six at the New York premiere of his new film, “Pain and Gain” last night. “Obviously I [have a] huge family and so many family and friends back in Boston… I don’t know if everybody is ok. I’m just trying to be here and put on a good face and be a professional and do my job, but I’m obviously very upset by it. The world needs to change if you think about all of the events over the last couple of years. If we can’t protect our innocent women and children, and people, we’ve got a serious problem.”
An 8-year-old boy was among the dead. Rapper 50 Cent, who was at the premiere with Wahlberg, expressed his dismay. He told AP, “When you see kids involved in it, I can’t write it off. I can’t say maybe (it was) karma that is why the kid was where he was.”
“Young Adult” star Patton Oswalt took to his Facebook shortly after the tragedy. In a now-viral post, he strove for optimism in wake of the devastation.
“You watch the videos of the carnage and there are people running TOWARDS the destruction to help out,” he wrote. ”We would not be here if humanity were inherently evil.”
“So when you spot violence, or bigotry, or intolerance or fear or just garden-variety misogyny, hatred or ignorance, just look it in the eye and think, ‘The good outnumber you, and we always will,’” he concluded.
Many other stars sent thoughts and prayers via Twitter:
Ben Affleck: Such a senseless and tragic day. My family and I send our love to our beloved and resilient Boston.
Justin Timberlake: My thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the city of Boston and all of those affected by this terrible incident.
Joey McIntyre (who ran in the marathon): There was an explosion by the finish line about 5 minutes after I finished- I’m ok but I’m sure there are many hurt.
Lindsay Lohan: Sending prayers to everyone who was/is at the#bostonmarathon
Kim Kardashian: My heart is breaking for everyone effected or injured in the explosion at the Boston Marathon. God bless you all! My prayers are with you!
Miley Cyrus: Sending peace & many blessings to Boston ❤❤❤
Britney Spears: Sending my thoughts & prayers to Boston, my heart is with u all… #PrayForBoston
Pink: Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the explosions in Boston.