Alicia Silverstone recalls fond memories of Brittany Murphy, her co-star in the iconic 1995 teen comedy Clueless.

“I always felt connected to her as we shared a very special experience in our lives together,” Alicia told PEOPLE, hours after news broke that Brittany passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 32. “I feel love in my heart for her – and hope she is at peace. This is truly sad.”

Brittany played ugly-duckling transfer Tai in the 1995 sleeper comedy -– it was the film that launched them both to fame. The two stars went their separate ways after Clueless and “didn’t stay in close touch over the years.” Nonetheless, Alicia found a joy.

“I loved working with Brittany,” she said. “She was so talented, so warm and so sweet.”