Shiggy feels the same way we all do.

Shigeru Miyamoto (often affectionately called Shiggy by fans) has issued a statement through Nintendo to the Wall Street Journal on Saturday’s passing of the company’s president, Satoru Iwata. “I am surprised at this sudden news and overcome with sadness,” Miyamoto said in the statement. The Wall Street Journal added that Miyamoto noted that he plans to continue the game-development stance that he established with Iwata.

Iwata died due to complications from a bile-duct growth at the age of 55. Miyamoto and fellow senior managing director Genyo Takeda are now Nintendo’s two top executives. Miyamoto, who is 62, is a possible successor to Iwata.

Popular with fans for his infectious smile and child-like enthusiasm for gaming, Miyamoto has worked at Nintendo since 1977. He rose to gaming stardom when he created Donkey Kong, the 1981 arcade game that introduced Mario to the world. He would develop other landmark titles like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Super Mario 64, and Wii Sports.

Miyamoto, Iwata, and Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aimé were often the public faces of Nintendo, appearing together in videos used to promote upcoming products. Recently, the trio starred together in Muppet form for the company’s E3 streaming event.

Nintendo’s social channels will remain silent today in honor of Iwata.