Hollywood has been shining brightly for decades, and one of its brightest stars – George Clooney – has just left the world in mourning. The 63-year-old actor’s family has just confirmed that he is officially retiring due to serious health reasons.

“George has fought a quiet battle for many years, but now it is time for him to devote all his time to himself and his family,” – his family representative shared with the media.

George Clooney – the face associated with a series of blockbusters such as Ocean’s Eleven, The Descendants, Syriana (the role that brought him the Oscar) – has always been known as a resilient, energetic person. But according to a close source, he has been dealing with symptoms related to motor neuron disorder, including chronic headaches, loss of balance, and numbness in his hands and feet for many years.

“He thought it was just the result of falling on set, but it turned out to be much more serious,” said a close friend who asked not to be named.

On recent red carpets, observant fans have noticed that George looked more tired than usual, walking slowly and often needing support from his wife, lawyer Amal Clooney. Some behind-the-scenes photos from the final filming session show him constantly sitting down between takes, with a distant look in his eyes and no longer the usual radiance.

His personal doctors are said to have advised him to stay away from the spotlight to avoid aggravating his health condition.

In a handwritten letter to his loyal fans, George confided:

“I used to think I was superman – unstoppable. But the truth is that time and the body wait for no one. I have devoted everything to cinema, and now it is time to devote myself to my real life – peaceful breakfasts, afternoons without deadlines, and nights sleeping with my wife and children.”

Former co-stars Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, Sandra Bullock and Matt Damon have all sent their condolences and words of support. On Instagram, Julia wrote:

“Thank you for laughing, crying and living life to the fullest. George was more than just an actor – he was a living icon.”

According to his family, he and Amal have moved to a secluded villa on Lake Como (Italy) – where they can enjoy the fresh air and away from the paparazzi. It is possible that George will continue to work quietly in the field of production or directing, but all schedules are “dependent on the health of each day.”