One of the world’s most iconic Bond girls, Diana Rigg, has died aged 82.
Ms Rigg was best known for her roles on film, TV and stage, including her starring role as Emma Peel in The Avengers alongside Patrick Macnee, where she appeared in 51 episodes of the hit spy series between 1965 and 1968.
She also starred as Countess Teresa di Vicenzo in the 1969 Bond film, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, and made film history by becoming the only woman to marry James Bond.
More recently, she placed Lady Olenna Tyrell in the HBO cult show, Game of Thrones.
Ms Rigg’s agent has confirmed that she died “peacefully” on Thursday morning, adding that she had been “at home with her family who have asked for privacy at this difficult time”.
Her daughter, actor Rachael Stirling, said her mother had been diagnosed with cancer in March, and had spent her last month reflecting on her extraordinary life, “full of love, laughter and a deep pride in her profession. I will miss her beyond words.”
Natalie Dormer, who played her granddaughter Margaery Tyrell in Game of Thrones, has told reporters, “It was a great privilege to work with an actor of such talent, range and experience. Diana was an inspiring force with a wicked sense of humour and sharp intellect. I am grateful for the times I shared either a screen or a bottle of champagne with her.”
