The designer passed away on Tuesday

    Kate Spade's brother-in-law, actor David Spade, has paid tribute to his brother's wife of 24 years after the shock announcement of her death on Tuesday morning. The 54-year-old star shared an old Christmas photo of the two together with his 1.2 million Instagram followers and said that he "still can't believe it".

    "Fuzzy picture but I love it. Kate and I during Christmas family photos. We had so much fun that day. She was so sharp and quick on her feet. She could make me laugh so hard," he captioned the snap. "I still can't believe it. It's a rough world out there people, try to hang on."

    Many of the actor's celebrity friends quickly took to the comments section to express their condolences, with Kate Beckinsale writing: "Lots of love to you and your family. I'm so sorry this has happened xx." Jessica Alba said: "I'm so sorry David," followed by a sad face emoji. Other well-wishers included Selma Blair, Kate Walsh, and Cindy Crawford, who posted several praying emoji hands.

    RELATED: Fashion designer Kate Spade dies aged 55

    Earlier in the day, the family released a statement via the , confirming Kate's shock death: "We are all devastated by today's tragedy. We loved Kate dearly and will miss her terribly. We would ask that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this very difficult time."

    It has been reported that Kate and Andy were having relationship problems. A source told that the father-of-one was reportedly seen shopping for a new one or two-bedroom apartment in Manhattan recently.

    MORE: Reese Witherspoon leads celebrity tributes to Kate Spade following her death

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