"This breaks my heart"

Director Joel Schumacher has passed away at the age of 80 from cancer, it was revealed last night.

Joel Schumacher was renowned for helming 'Batman Forever' and 'Batman & Robin'. He also directed cult classic movies 'St. Elmo's Fire' and 'The Lost Boys'.

Of Irish interest, Schumacher directed Colin Farrell in 'Tigerland' and 'Phone Booth', as well as the biopic 'Veronica Guerin'. His later credits included 'The Phantom of the Opera' and episodes of Netflix series 'House of Cards'.

Tributes have been coming in on social media from the likes of Corey Haim, sister of the late Corey Haim who starred in 'Lost Boys', and Minnie Driver, who starred in 'Phantom'.

 

'Phantom of the Opera' stars Patrick Wilson and Emmy Rossum also shared words of thanks.

 

Kiefer Sutherland, who worked with Schumacher on a number of films, also paid a touching tribute.

 

Jim Carrey, star of 'Batman Forever', said the late director "lived a wonderfully creative and heroic life."

 

Corey Feldman shared a series of tweets honouring the director and their friendship.

 

Fans of Schumacher such as comedians Billy Eichner and Kevin Smith also turned to Twitter to express their condolences.