Heavy D — real name Dwight Arrington Myers died today from Pneumonia, TMZ has learned. The legendary rapper was rushed to an L.A. hospital around noon today, and was pronounced dead at the hospital at 1 PM. He was 44 years old.

Several celebrities took to the social networking site Twitter to offer condolences (see below).

Sean Kingston: R.I.P Rap legend Heavy D One Of The Most Influential Rappers Of The ’90s Era… Smh Another Sad Day For Music You Will Def Be Missed Man

Tweet: R.I.P HEAVY D

Russell Simmons: I am deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Heavy D. A long time friend and a beautiful person

Nas: RIP TO A REAL HIP HOP LEGEND HEAVY D!

Timbaland: I’m at a lost for words rip heavy d

John Legend: I’m so sad about Hev. He really was a wonderful person.

Diggy Simmons: Wooow can’t even believe that. RIP Heavy D and my condolences to his family. A true Hip Hop great

Nick Cannon: I’m hoping that these are rumors what people are saying about my man @heavyd My heart won’t allow me to believe it!

Melanie Fiona: RIP Heavy D. Damn. Xo

Missy Elliot: U will be missed Heavy D so many laughs we’ve shared but your Music is Timeless and will Always be Around 4ever Love u Heav…

Wendy Williams: RIP Heavy D…..love you like cooked food!

Lala Vazquez: Stunned by the news of @heavyd passing away. He was an amazing man that always wanted 2help others..mayGOD bless him in heaven&his family

Mario Lopez: The overweight lover Heavy D was one of my favorites growing up. From an era when hip hop was fun, entertaining and had a social conscience. He was a cool, smooth big man… R.I.P Heavy D.. My condolences to your family

Ne-Yo: Man. I was just with Heavy D recently in London. Had I known it’d be the last time I’d see him, I woulda told him he was truly great. RIP…

Travis Barker: Damn.. R.I.P. HeavyD~

Ludacris: Money Earnin Mount Vernon. My Pops & Grandpops were from there. Rest in Peace Heavy D. He put Mount Vernon on the Map.

Rickey Smiley: Please tell me the news about Heavy D is not true

Latoya Jackson: @heavyd My heart goes out to the family and love ones of Heavy D I am sooo sorry for your lost. You will be in my prayers.

Usher: This is too heavy, I can’t believe it. HEAVY D was just here. Truly gone too soon. My heart and support goes out to his family. R.I.P HEAVY

Samuel L. Jackson: Ahhh man! Heavy D?! Dwight wz a dear friend. Fond memories of a truly cool brutha.

Nicki Minaj: We’ll never forget you babe! #hiphopelite #RIPHeavyD

Rev Run: R.I.P to one of the best rappers who ever Did it @HeavyD You will be missed tremendously!

Common: Heavy D was…no…is one of Hip-Hops finest. Your art and contribution will live 4ever brother! #RIPHheavyD

Ice T: Terrible news ‘Heavy D’ died today.. Rest In Peace homie…

[mashshare]