Stars have paid tribute to actor Peter O’Toole who has died at the age of 81. The actor died on Saturday at London’s Wellington hospital after a long illness, his agent explained. O’Toole’s daughter, Kate, said the family were “completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of real love and affection”.

Raise a glass for the legendary Peter O'Toole. What a star. — edgarwright (@edgarwright) December 15, 2013

Oh what terrible news. Farewell Peter O’Toole. I had the honour of directing him in a scene. Monster, scholar, lover of life, genius … — Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) December 15, 2013

A proper star.RT @SimonNRicketts: Peter O’Toole has died. Worth watching his entrance to Letterman’s show again. http://t.co/wLDXnI6sCl — Dara Ó Briain (@daraobriain) December 15, 2013

So sad to hear about Peter O’Toole passing away. Lucky to have worked with him for a month in Prague. Wonderful man, remarkable talent. — Neil Patrick Harris (@ActuallyNPH) December 15, 2013

R.I.P Peter O'Toole one of our best actors, great performance in the Night of the Generals — Lord Sugar (@Lord_Sugar) December 15, 2013

Sad to read about passing of acting great Peter O'Toole. Eight Oscar nominations highlight what a talent he was. RIP. — Marlee Matlin (@MarleeMatlin) December 15, 2013

Thoughts and prayers going out to the family of Peter O'Toole — William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) December 15, 2013

"I can't stand light. I hate weather. My idea of heaven is moving from one smoke-filled room to another." Safe travels, Peter O'Toole. — Paul F. Tompkins (@PFTompkins) December 15, 2013

Farewell to the magnificent Peter O'Toole. http://t.co/pYdvqANG9U — Clark Gregg (@clarkgregg) December 15, 2013

Sad to hear about the passing of Peter O'Toole. A fine, true actor. Also extremely funny. Rent "My Favorite Year" - he was fantastic in it. — Dan Schneider (@DanWarp) December 15, 2013

May he rest in peace.