English Actress Dame Diana Rigg, who played the roles of Emma Peel in TV series The Avengers and Olenna Tyrell in Game of Thrones, has passed away at the age of 82.
Her daughter Rachael Stirling confirmed the demise, saying she died of cancer after being diagnosed in March.
“She spent her last months joyfully reflecting on her extraordinary life, full of love, laughter, and deep pride in her profession,” she added.
Stirling earlier announced the news by writing: “My Beloved Ma died peacefully in her sleep early this morning, at home, surrounded by family. I will miss her beyond words.”
Dame Diana is the only woman who became Mrs. James Bond.
She appeared as Tracy, who married George Lazenby’s 007 in the 1969 film On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. On the other hand, Dame Diana also appeared as the Duchess of Buccleuch in ITV’s Victoria and Mrs. Pumphrey in Channel 5’s new adaptation of All Creatures Great and Small.
The Game of Throne’s official account paid homage to the great actress.
Be a dragon.
The realm will always remember Diana Rigg.— Game of Thrones (@GameOfThrones) September 10, 2020
Sir Tom Stoppard also paid tribute to her. He remembered her “luminous” talent, while fellow playwright Sir David Hare said the actress had a “dazzling change of direction in middle age as a great classical actor”.
Others also expressed grief over Diana’s demise.
“We are very sad to hear of the passing of Dame Diana Rigg, the legendary stage and screen actress who was much beloved by Bond fans for her memorable performance as Tracy di Vicenzo in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, the only woman to have married James Bond.” pic.twitter.com/nqQCSg35oM
— James Bond (@007) September 10, 2020
It was my great joy and privilege to have known Diana Rigg. From three slightly hysterical months at the Old Vic in ‘All About Mother’ to writing The Crimson Horror for Diana and her wonderful daughter Rachael. Flinty, fearless, fabulous. There will never be another. RIP pic.twitter.com/2EGc4MVx0S
— Mark Gatiss (@Markgatiss) September 10, 2020