Sir Christopher Lee has died at the age of 93 after suffering from respiratory distress and heart failure.

News of the legendary actor's passing was confirmed by a Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea council spokesman.

The rep said in their statement, "We can confirm that the Register Office issued a death certificate for Mr Christopher Lee on Monday 8 June, Mr Lee died on Sunday 7 June."

Lee starred in many of the film industry's most successful franchises most recently including the "Lord of the Rings" series.

His co-star in that series Dominic Monaghan was one of the first to tribute the icon, tweeting, "So, so sorry to hear that Christopher Lee has passed away. He was a fascinating person."

The British Film Institute also shared their condolences, tweeting, "We are deeply saddened to hear that Sir Christopher Lee has passed away."