It read: "Bonnie's family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in the hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for. We will issue a further statement shortly, but for now ask for privacy to deal with this tragedy."

After the tragic news hit the headlines, her famous friends and loyal legion of fans flocked to social media to share their favourite memories of the Total Eclipse of the Heart hitmaker online. Meanwhile, the Maggie May musician, 81, decided to pay a touching tribute to the star by performing one of her hit singles at an intimate gig in Scotland.

Rod and his wife, Penny Lancaster, were attending a special event at Gleneagles in support of The King's Trust, where the heartfelt performance served as a moving tribute to the late Welsh singer. Before he sang the song, he shared a sweet message with her loved ones while standing in front of a grand piano.

He told attendees: "We lost a good friend of mine in the last 24 hours, Bonnie Tyler," before jumping into her 1977 single. As he belted out It's a Heartache, the small crowd became visibly emotional.

Mr Stewart wasn't the only famous face to share a tribute to the star, with Cliff Richard also taking to Facebook to share a lengthy post and a sweet snap with Bonnie online. He penned: "Another wonderful friend gone too soon.

"Bonnie's infectious zest for life entertained so many around the world, and to be a good friend to all, including me. It is shocking news to wake up to you this morning, and I send my love to her family at this very sad time. RIP Bonnie... Cliff."

Elsewhere, Catherine Zeta-Jones paid her respects on Instagram, saying her heart was "broken" with the news that "our dearest Bonnie Tyler has passed away". The Total Eclipse of the Heart hitmaker is survived by her husband of more than 50 years, Robert Sullivan, who is Zeta-Jones' cousin.

The Chicago movie star, who shared a snap of herself with the musician, continued: "A one of a kind artist, who so easily could have been a comedian because she was one of the funniest people I ever met. Thank you, Bonnie, for the joy you brought so many. Sleep tight, beautiful lady."

It is understood that Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is among those honouring the Welsh pop star, calling her an "iconic figure" and "one of Britain's greatest recording artists."