Cilla Black death: Celebrity fans mourn 60s icon and friend of The Beatles and Sir Cliff Richard

Cliff Richard and Cilla Black — Cilla Black, photographed here with friend Cliff Richard at the Wimbledon tennis championship, has died age 72

Celebrities have been reacting to the news 60s icon turned household TV presenter Cilla Black has died at her villa in Marbella.

The 72-year-old reportedly died of natural causes overnight but is yet to undergo an autopsy.

Cilla, who was born Priscilla Maria Veronica White in Liverpool in May 1943, rose to become one of Britain's most popular singers and scored eleven Top Ten hits between 1964 and 1971.

She earned a legion of fans and transformed her career when she became a successful TV presenter of hit shows "Surprise, Surprise" and "Blind Date" during the 1980s and 1990s.

Celebrities including Joan Collins and Piers Morgan have taken to Twitter to pay tribute to the star:

I am so sad and shocked by news about my good friend Cilla. She was a resplendent and rare talent. RIP #cillablack http://t.co/wsK6RtIszI
— Joan Collins (@Joancollinsdbe) August 2, 2015

Very sorry to hear of the passing of Cilla Black RIP a lovely lady always emanated happiness,deepest sympathies to her three boys
— Barry McGuigan (@ClonesCyclone) August 2, 2015

RIP Cilla Black. Very very sad news.
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) August 2, 2015

Anyone who has a heart will regret the passing at 72 of Cilla Black. May she rest in peace
— George Galloway (@georgegalloway) August 2, 2015

This photo is even more special to me now... pic.twitter.com/nmUcArmJjO
— Holly Willoughby (@hollywills) August 2, 2015

I've just heard the incredibly sad news that the legendary Cilla has died. So sad. A truly wonderful lady and an entertainment icon ?
— Phillip Schofield (@Schofe) August 2, 2015

RIP to singing sensation and TV Presenter Cilla Black. Gone too soon xxxx
— Dawn French (@DawnFrenchUK) August 2, 2015

Join the Discussion