Kanye West, Russell Crowe and Ricky Gervais are among the stars to pay tribute to the late David Bowie.

David Bowie

David Bowie

The 'Starman' hitmaker died following a secret battle with cancer yesterday (10.01.16) and his famous fans have taken to Twitter to remember the iconic singer.

Kanye hailed Bowie as one of his "most important" inspirations.

He wrote: "David Bowie was one of my most important inspirations, so fearless, so creative, he gave us magic for a lifetime.

"I pray for his family and friends."

'Gladiator' star Russell remembered him as "one of the greatest performance artists" ever.

He posted: "RIP David. I loved your music. I loved you. One of the greatest performance artists to have ever lived. #sorrow"

And hours after hosting the Golden Globe Awards, Ricky - who convinced his reclusive idol to appear on his 2006 sitcom 'Extras' - was morning the passing of his "hero".

He tweeted: "I just lost a hero. RIP David Bowie."

Singer Marc Almond has been left "devastated" by the news.

He wrote: "It's not often I truly cry at the loss of an artist but I'm devastated. He meant so much. Goodbye David Bowie and our youth. We loved you. X

"There will never be another that comes close. It's too much . Just can't take it in. Black day!"

Singers Gary Newman and Alison Moyet also paid tribute to the singer, whose real name was David Jones.

Gary simply wrote: "A True Legend. David Bowie. RIP."

Alison added: "David Bowie. Our greatest, gone and here forever. A world's heart breaks. #Bowie (sic)"

Comic Eddie Izzard said the 69-year-old star would "live forever through his music" and appealed for a global musical tribute.

He wrote: "Very sad to hear about the death of David Bowie but through his music he will live forever

"Please could every radio station around the globe just play David Bowie music today - I think the world owes him that."

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