Screen icon Carrie Fisher has died in hospital just days after suffering a heart attack on a transatlantic flight.
The 60-year-old was loved by millions of film fans across the world for her performance as Princess Leia in the Star Wars franchise.
She was propelled to worldwide fame after landing the role in George Lucas’ 1977 sci-fi blockbuster.
Fisher had taken ill on a flight from London to Los Angeles on December 23, having suffered from a heart attack.
In a statement released on behalf of Fisher’s daughter Billie Lourd, spokesman Simon Halls said: “It is with a very deep sadness that Billie Lourd confirms that her beloved mother Carrie Fisher passed away at 8.55 this morning.
“She was loved by the world and she will be missed profoundly. Our entire family thanks you for your thoughts and prayers.”
Her co-star from the Star Wars franchise, Mark Hamill, tweeted that there were “no words” to express his grief.
no words #Devastated pic.twitter.com/R9Xo7IBKmh
— Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) December 27, 2016
Tributes have poured in for the actress, who starred in three Star Wars sequels including 2015’s The Force Awakens.
Star Trek actor William Shatner tweeted: “I’m deeply saddened to learn of the death of Carrie Fisher. I will miss our banterings. A wonderful talent & light has been extinguished.”
Fisher had appeared to be stable in hospital in California following her medical episode on a United Airlines flight last Friday.
Her mother Debbie Reynolds tweeted on Christmas Day: “Carrie is in stable condition. If there is a change, we will share it. For all her fans & friends. I thank you for your prayers & good wishes.”
Actress Whoopi Goldberg said: “Carrie Fisher has passed, she was funnier & smarter than anyone had the right to be. Sail On Silver Girl. Condolences Debbie & Billie R.I.P.”
Mia Farrow added: “Carrie was brilliant, funny and talented. Sending huge love be to her mom, her daughter, Billie and her many friends.”
The actress was born in Beverly Hills, California, to actress Debbie Reynolds and singer Eddie Fisher, who also found fame hosting his own TV show.
She made her acting debut in 1975 in Shampoo, starring alongside household names such as Warren Beatty and Goldie Hawn.
