Tributes have been paid to Katherine Helmond, whose death has been announced. She was 89.

Helmond was famous for her appearances in memorable TV shows and films. She starred in the groundbreaking comedy Soap and Who's The Boss? on television and also famously appeared in the Terry Gilliam films Brazil, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and Time Bandits. She also appeared in numerous other TV shows including Coach and Everybody Loves Raymond. She also played Ruby Wax's mother in the BBC sitcom Girls On Top.

Gilliam led the tributes, writing on Facebook: "The incredibly beautiful, funny, charming, intelligent, and totally wonderful human being and dear friend, Katherine Helmond, has said farewell at the ever-young age of 89. Katherine always lit up the room and the screen whenever she appeared. She glowed. Her smile and laughter made every moment with her a joy...I was very lucky to have made three films with her. She will be Sam Lowry's mother forever.. an eternal reminder of the joys of plastic surgery."

Tony Danza tweeted: "We all lost a national treasure today. No words can measure my love."

Danny Pintauro tweeted: "We lost one of the most genuine and kind people I have ever known. There's not a single person who can say otherwise - she was always smiling, full of heart, and had the best advice. I couldn't have asked for a better grandmother and I will miss her so dearly."

Actor Judith Light tweeted:"Katherine Helmond was an inspiration to me and so many others Her grace, talent and humor will be deeply missed She is in my heart forever"

Buy Soap! the Inside Story of the Sitcom That Broke All the Rules here.

Watch Katherine Helmond in Girls on Top below.