Legendary composer Ennio Morricone has passed away at the age of 91, according to reports in the Italian media.

The Rome-born composer died during the night in hospital after suffering a fall, according to newspaper Corriere Della Serra.

Morricone began his career in the 1940s, and had a hugely successful career composing scores for many well-known films, from 'The Good, The Bad and the Ugly' to 'Cinema Paradiso', 'The Mission' and 'The Thing'. He was considered the greatest living film composer by many.

He had been touring and performing up until recently, and played Dublin's 3Arena as part of his '60 Years of Music' tour. His final concert took place in Rome in January of this year.

His family said in a statement that his funeral would be held privately, and paid tribute to the support of his wife Maria and his children and grandchildren, as well as his audience.

RIP.