Tributes pour in for Elizabeth Taylor

Tributes poured in on Twitter from stars around the world following the announcement of the actress's death.

Singer George Michael wrote: "Such a sad day, Elizabeth Taylor was the last of the Hollywood greats, and a fantastically charming woman.

"She was also the only person I've ever met that had violet eyes. They were genuinely violet. So beautiful.

"She also did a great deal in the last 25 years to help the world deal with the HIV epidemic. I am proud to have known her, if only a little."

Pop star Kylie Minogue wrote: "RIP Dame Elizabeth Taylor.... Like a pure white diamond you'll shine on and on and on."

Actress Kirstie Alley said: "Elizabeth ... thank you for the lessons you taught me about life ... suffering and joy ... you are the brightest star in the universe.... Eternal love".

Broadcaster Stephen Fry wrote: "RIP Dame Elizabeth Taylor, surely the last of a breed..."

Singer Boy George said: "RIP the amazing Liz Taylor, goddess, actress, Aids activist and one of the world's true beauties!"

Actor Nick Frost said: "Terribly sad news about Elizabeth Taylor. What a life she had!"

Presenter Fearne Cotton said: "So sad to hear Elizabeth Taylor has passed away. A Hollywood legend. Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is one of my fave films. RIP."

Other leading figures also spoke highly of Dame Elizabeth.

Sir Elton John, a long-time friend, said: "We have just lost a Hollywood giant. More importantly, we have lost an incredible human being."

Veteran filmmaker Michael Winner said: "Elizabeth Taylor was the last of the great glamour stars. She was the longest-running soap opera in history, and represented all the allure and tragedy that attracts people to Hollywood."

In an era when stars increasingly dressed down off screen, her death was a loss, he said.

"In her day, if you were on the screen and glamorous, you did not let your fans down, and you looked good even when you went to the shops. She will be dreadfully missed."

Former chat show host Larry King said: "Elizabeth Taylor was a great friend, a great star and one gutsy woman. She was so special. You won't see the likes of her again."

Sir Michael Caine said: "So sad to hear about my beautiful friend Elizabeth Taylor. She was a great human being."