Gifford, 84, died suddenly at his home in Connecticut and his death has stunned famous friends and fans alike.

Trump was among the hundreds to took to Twitter.com on Sunday after learning of the sad news and called the deceased "my friend and a truly great guy", while Oscar winner Matlin offered condolences to Gifford's widow, TV personality Kathie Lee Gifford, to "the passing of a sports great".

Other tributes and condolences came from pop star-turned-radio personality Lance Bass, Ellen DeGeneres, Maria Shriver, Tom Arnold and Kim Kardashian's half-sister Kendall Jenner, who was the late sports icon's goddaughter.

She tweeted, "very sad day. Rest in Peace to my Godfather. The legend, Frank Gifford."

Meanwhile, Nancy Sinatra offered up a special message, writing, "So sorry to hear of the passing of Frank Gifford one of the very good guys. Prayers for his family. To Frank godspeed."

And his widow also summoned the strength to turn to Twitter.com, and thanked fans for their "outpouring of grace". She added, "We r steadfast in our faith & finding comfort in knowing where Frank is."