The stage, film and TV star had been battling cancer.

Helen McCrory has sadly passed away this afternoon. She had been battling cancer, according to her husband Damian Lewis.

Damian shared the news online.

He wrote: "I'm heartbroken to announce that after an heroic battle with cancer, the beautiful and might woman that is Helen McCrory has died peacefully at home, surrounded by a wave of love from friends and family.

"She died as she lived. Fearlessly. God we love her and know how lucky we are to have had her in our lives. She blazed so brightly. Go now, Little One, into the air, and thank you."

Helen McCrory was best known for her roles in 'Peaky Blinders' as Aunt Polly, as well as playing the role of Narcissa Malfoy in the 'Harry Potter' franchise.

She also appeared in 'Skyfall', and last year appeared in TV seriess 'Quiz' and 'Roadkill'.

Helen McCrory and Damian Lewis have two children together, daughter Manon, and son Gulliver.