Stars have paid tribute to 'magnificent talent' and 'friend of Norfolk' Sir John Hurt, who has died aged 77 following a battle with cancer.

Fellow Norfolk resident Stephen Fry said: 'Oh no. What terrible news. We've lost JohnHurt as great on the stage, small screen and big. A great man & great friend of Norfolk & #NCFC'

JK Rowling tweeted of Hurt, who played wand-maker Mr Ollivander in the film adaptations of her Harry Potter books: 'So very sad to hear that the immensely talented and deeply beloved John Hurt has died. My thoughts are with his family and friends.'

Hollywood legend Mel Brooks said: 'It was terribly sad today to learn of John Hurt's passing. He was a truly magnificent talent.

'No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably. He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed.'

Richard E Grant wrote: 'So so sad to have lost such an extraordinary talent and friend. Sir John Hurt. R. I. P.'

Film-maker Kevin Smith tweeted: 'Rest in Peace to the actor genius #JohnHurt. Most folks know him from ALIEN but I loved him as Sir Richard Rich from A Man for All Seasons.'

Sharon Stone said: 'God speed to John Hurt, a legendary actor and good human being.'

Elijah Wood tweeted: 'Very sad to hear of John Hurt's passing. It was such an honor to have watched you work, sir.'

Billy Elliot actor Jamie Bell tweeted: 'I will forever cherish the memories I have of the incomparable John Hurt. A brilliant actor & a beautiful soul.'

Comic actor David Schneider wrote: 'Sad re John Hurt. I was in a film with him and he was so mesmerising I kept forgetting to act and just watched him. A genius & a lovely man.'

Footballer Stan Collymore said: 'Rest In Peace John Hurt. What a wonderful actor and gentleman. Thank you for the memories.'

Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash tweeted: 'RIP John Hurt. One of my all time favorite actors.'

True Blood actor Stephen Moyer wrote: 'So so sad to hear the news about #JohnHurt.

'An absurdly gifted, brilliant actor and a very funny beautiful man RIP John x.'

Queen guitarist Brian May said: 'What a fabulous actor, splendid voice and venerable human being. How sad to lose him. RIP John Hurt.'

Hunger Games actor Sam Claflin tweeted: 'Such sad news to start the day with. Sir John Hurt, r.i.p. An honest, inspirational figure. A man who always stayed true to the 'art'.