In his statement, Obama called Ebert by his first name. (Rebert, Wikimedia Commons)

The statement, issued Thursday, called Ebert by his first name and praised him for being "honest," "effusive," and "resilient" thorughout his 46-year career. 

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"The movies won't be the same without Roger, and our thoughts and prayers are with Chaz and the rest of the Ebert family," Obama said.

Read the full statement at Huffington Post.

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