Apollo 13 director Ron Howard and producer Brian Grazer paid tribute today to Jim Lovell , commander of the ill-fated moon mission on which they based their hit 1995 movie. The astronaut died Thursday at 97 .

“Jim Lovell was a true American hero whose courage, intellect and grace under pressure inspired a nation,” Grazer said in a statement. “He was not only a legend in space exploration, but also an incredibly generous, kind and inspiring man. Thank you, Commander Lovell, for showing us the best of what we can be.”

Howard said: “Rest in peace, Commander Lovell. Navy test pilot, Gemini 7, Gemini 12, Apollo 8 and, of course, Apollo 13. Simply knowing Jim has been a tremendous honor. His combination of intellect, courage and commitment to duty made him one of the most remarkable

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