Actor Peter O'Toole, best known for his titular role as T. E. Lawrence in 1962's "Lawrence of Arabia," has died at the age of 81 in London after a long illness, his agent said on Sunday.
"Peter O'Toole's family announced today that very sadly Peter died yesterday, peacefully in hospital. He had been ill for some time," Steve Kenis said in a statement.
The actor's daughter Kate O'Toole said in a statement to MSNBC that the family is "very appreciative and completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of real love and affection."
"In due course there will be a memorial filled with song and good cheer, as he would have wished," she added. "We will be happy to speak to you all then but in the meantime if you could give Peter O'Toole the respect he deserves and allow us to grieve privately we'd appreciate it."
As news of the actor's death broke, celebrities took to social media to share their memories of the Hollywood legend.
Take a look at what they had to say:
— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) December 15, 2013
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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
When I did RATATOUILLE, the animators were SALIVATING at the prospect of rendering Peter O'Toole's read of "POP-u-lar." #RIPPeterOToole — Patton Oswalt (@pattonoswalt) December 15, 2013
Farewell to the great Peter O'Toole. The finest actor of his generation. — Brent Spiner (@BrentSpiner) December 15, 2013
Last time I saw Peter he picked up a huge chair and carried it across the room for me, at 78. #peterotoole — virginia madsen (@madlyv) 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
RIP Alan Swann! I know Peter O’Toole was known for so much more, but that was my introduction to him as a kid and I loved him for it. — Colin Hanks (@ColinHanks) December 15, 2013