Graham Norton left 'numb' by death of Carrie Fisher weeks after interview on BBC chat show

Graham Norton has told how he was left “numb” after the death of Carrie Fisher just weeks after she appeared on his show.

The comedian and TV chat show interviewed Ms Fisher on December 9 about her latest book The Princess Diarist and the latest series of her upcoming Amazon show Catastrophe.

The 60-year-old Star Wars actress suffered a cardiac arrest as she flew from London to Los Angeles on Friday before she died on Tuesday morning.

He tweeted: “Numb. Unbelievable that such a bright funny loving spark could be extinguished. @carrieffisher you will be missed. I wish you peace.”

Her death was confirmed by relatives while she was being treated in intensive care.

In a statement released on behalf of Fisher's daughter Billie Lourd, spokesman Simon Halls said: "It is with a very deep sadness that Billie Lourd confirms that her beloved mother Carrie Fisher passed away at 8.55 this morning.

"She was loved by the world and she will be missed profoundly. Our entire family thanks you for your thoughts and prayers."

Hollywood stars have lined up to pay tribute to Ms Fisher, who was described as a “wonderful talent”.

Actress Whoopi Goldberg said: "Carrie Fisher has passed, she was funnier & smarter than anyone had the right to be. Sail On Silver Girl. Condolences Debbie & Billie R.I.P."

Star Trek actor William Shatner tweeted: "I'm deeply saddened to learn of the death of Carrie Fisher. I will miss our banterings. A wonderful talent & light has been extinguished."

Mia Farrow added: "Carrie was brilliant, funny and talented. Sending huge love be to her mom, her daughter, Billie and her many friends."

The actress became an international star and sex symbol when she appeared as Princess Leia in the 1977 sci-fi blockbuster.

She was due to reprise her role for Star Wars VIII, which is scheduled for release in December 2017.

Ms Fisher was born in Beverly Hills, California, to actress Debbie Reynolds and singer Eddie Fisher, who also found fame hosting his own television show.

She made her acting debut in 1975 in Shampoo, starring alongside household names such as Warren Beatty and Goldie Hawn.