Angela Lansbury dies at 96 in her sleep, says a statement by the family

Angela Lansbury, the celebrated actress and iconic star of Murder, She Wrote, died on Tuesday at the age of 96, according to her family in a statement. In a statement, her family said, “The children of Dame Angela Lansbury are sad to announce that their mother died peacefully in her sleep at home in Los Angeles at 1:30 AM today, Tuesday, October 11.”

The Hollywood legend died just five days before her 97th birthday. The London-born actor had a successful career, winning five Tony Awards, most recently in 2009 for best-featured actress in a play for her performance in Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit. She was best known for her role in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street as the ghoulish pie-maker Nellie Lovett. Her other three Tony awards came in 1966 for Mame, 1969 for Dear World, and 1975 for Gypsy.

Actors’ Equity, the union that represents live stage performers, announced Lansbury’s death in a statement. “A star of stage, TV and movies, Lansbury was an Equity member for an astounding 65 years. She leaves behind a library of work to enjoy for many generations. We send our condolences to her friends and family.”

Several actors in the industry paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary actress, including Viola Davis, who wrote,”Thought you would live forever. What an absolutely beautiful legacy you’ve left. You have influenced generations of actors to aspire to excellence. Rest well!!! May flights of angels.”

In a heartfelt tribute, Catherine Zeta-Jones, who co-starred with Dame Angela in the Broadway musical A Little Night Music, said their time together will “forever be one of the joys of my life.” Jason Alexander, who appeared on Seinfeld, also praised her. “one of the most versatile, talented, graceful, kind, witty, wise, classy ladies I’ve ever met.