Former president Bill Clinton has paid tribute to film producer Steve Bing, after his death at the age of 55.
Bing was known for his work on movies including Kangaroo Jack, which he co-wrote, and for financing films including The Polar Express, starring Tom Hanks.
He also previously dated Liz Hurley and they have a son, 18-year-old Damian, together.
Reports in the US state Bing died after falling from a building in Los Angeles. Bing’s publicist Michella Bega confirmed the news to Sky, stating she was "overwhelmed trying to process this unbelievable and sad event".
The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed it was investigating the death of a man in his 50s in the Century City area and the Los Angeles County coroner said a man was pronounced dead at the scene at 1.10pm local time on Monday, and that identification was pending.
In his tribute, Clinton said: “I loved Steve Bing very much. He had a big heart, and he was willing to do anything he could for the people and causes he believed in. I will miss him and his enthusiasm more than I can say, and I hope he’s finally found peace.”
Bing donated money to Clinton and was reportedly instrumental in helping the former president return two American reporters from North Korea in 2009.
Bing is reported to have dropped out of Stanford university as an 18-year-old after he inherited $600 million dollars (£481m) from his grandfather, the real estate developer Leo S Bing.
He then launched his Hollywood career and co-wrote the 2003 comedy Kangaroo Jack while reportedly investing $80 (£64 million) in 2004 animated film The Polar Express.
IMDb lists him as a producer on films including the 2000 Get Carter remake starring Sylvester Stallone and Shine A Light, Martin Scorsese’s 2008 documentary about the Rolling Stones.
Bing was was the founder of Shangri-La Entertainment, an organisation with interests in property, construction, entertainment and music.
As well as his work in Hollywood, Bing also donated money to the Democratic Party.
His name is listed on the Giving Pledge website, a project launched in 2010 by Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett that asks the super-rich to give away the majority of their wealth to philanthropy.
For confidential support on mental health call the Samaritans on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or attend a local Samaritans branch.
Additional reporting by Press Association
