It's with great sadness that we report on the passing of much loved Irish actor, star of Lawrence of Arabia, Peter O'Toole. The veteran actor died yesterday, age 81.

More recently, the younger generation will be likely to recognise O'Toole for his work in Stardust and Troy however it is David Lean's Oscar winning epic that he is perhaps most known for, and, of course, that ever-recognisable speaking voice.

This news comes via Steve Kenis, O'Toole's publicist, who broke the news to his loyal fans today.  Interestingly, though considered one of the best actors of his generation, O'Toole is one such man to be the most nominated without ever winning an actual Oscar for his own performance. Throughout his career that spanned 7 decades (with O'Toole coming to our notice after his performance in Irish hit Strumpet City), he was nominated for a total of 8 Oscars.

Though overcoming stomach cancer back in the 70s, O'Toole sadly passed away yesterday after an uphill struggle with a longterm illness. 

He is survived by his two daughters, Pat and Kate O'Toole, and his son Lorcan O'Toole. Commenting on the passing of her father and the support given to the family, Kate said: “His family are very appreciative and completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of real love and affection being expressed towards him, and to us, during this unhappy time. Thank you all, from the bottom of our hearts... In due course there will be a memorial filled with song and good cheer, as he would have wished."

RIP Peter O'Toole, 1932 - 2013.