SIR Paul McCartney is among a host of celebrities to lead tributes to singer and TV personality Cilla Black, who has died aged 72.
The former Beatles’ man and fellow Liverpudlian, paid tribute to Black’s “great spirit” and said that it was a “privilege” to have known her.
The band’s drummer Ringo Starr added that “we will all miss her”, in a Tweet about his good friend.
Paul on Cilla Black pic.twitter.com/XP1dyAPmWn
— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) August 2, 2015
Irish stars from the world of sport and showbiz shared their sadness upon hearing the news that the much-loved entertainer passed away on Sunday, at her home in Estepona on the Costa del Sol.
Belfast broadcaster Eamonn Holmes labelled her a “National Treasure,” whilst former Boyband member Ronan Keating spoke of his sadness at the passing of a “true showbiz legend.”
Boxing legend and Monaghan native Barry McGuigan said that Black was a “lovely lady,” who “emanated happiness.”
Another passing of a Legend. #RIPCilla Always loved being in her company. Condolences to Robert and Family. She was a National Treasure. — Eamonn Holmes (@EamonnHolmes) August 2, 2015
It is believed that she died due to natural causes.
Her agent Nick Fiveash confirmed her death and said that details of her death will be announced following the coroner’s report.
Black became a singing sensation during the 1960s, before going on to become a household name as TV host on popular shows such as Blind Date and Surprise Surprise.
Born Priscilla White in Liverpool, she adopted her new name to launch a singing career, with number one hits such as Anyone Who Had a Heart and You're My World.
Saddened to hear about the passing of Cilla Black. A true showbiz legend.
— Ronan Keating (@ronanofficial) August 2, 2015
In 1968, she was awarded her own BBC One series and hosted numerous shows for ITV. She began her career at Liverpool's renowned Cavern Club, where she started work as a part-time cloakroom attendant and met future husband Bobby Willis.
It was here that she later performed alongside The Beatles, with whom she became lifelong friends.
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
