Revered English actor Sir Christopher Lee has passed away at the age of 93, after being hospitalised for heart and respiratory problems.
The actor, best known for his roles in the Lord of the Rings, Star Wars and Dracula films, died at 8.30AM on Sunday (UK time) at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in London. The Guardian reports the late actor’s wife, Birgit Kroencke, delayed making the news public until all of Sir Christopher’s family and friends had been informed.
Sir Christopher received a knighthood in 2009 for his contributions to charity and drama, and was beloved by many for his compelling and charismatic roles on the screen. The actor was also a talented singer and released several albums of his own.
Tributes have already started pouring in for Sir Christopher on social media. Tim Burton, who worked with the actor on no less than five films, described him as an “enormous inspiration”.
“He was the last of his kind – a true legend – who I’m fortunate to have called a friend. He will continue to inspire me and I’m sure countless others for generations to come,” a statement on his Facebook page read.
