Stephen Rivers dies of cancer at 55*

Longtime political activist and Hollywood public relations strategist Stephen Rivers died Monday after a long battle with cancer, according to media reports and reaction on his Facebook page. Rivers worked for many years with the United Farm Workers union and more recently has led trips to Cuba with actors and directors. From The Hollywood Reporter: "Jordan's Queen Rania Al Abdullah numbered among his other clients. Rivers was active in Democratic Party affairs but also enjoyed close relationships with Republicans, including California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger." His clients have also included Barbra Streisand, Jane Fonda and the Kennedy family. "A friend with great warmth and expertise," says Ted Johnson at Variety. From Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver:

Stephen was a great human being -- one of the best. What made him so special was his total grasp of his craft, whether it was the entertainment world, the political arena, non-profits or the private sector. He was the only one who could bring it all together for the benefit of whatever cause he supported. Stephen's talent had no boundaries, and he will be missed.

* Note: The Hollywood Reporter fixed its reference to the wrong queen of Jordan.

Photo: Facebook