Hollywood actor Peter O’Toole has died at the age of 81.

His career began with critically-acclaimed roles on the British stage.

But it was his performance in David Lean’s Oscar-winning epic ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ that thrust him into super-stardom at the age of 30.

O’Toole – adored by his admirers for his good looks and charm, as well as his talent – received eight Oscar nominations during his movie career.

He was the most-nominated actor never to win the accolade – until he was awarded an honorary Oscar in 2003.

In a statement, O’Toole’s family said he had passed away peacefully in hospital on Saturday, December 14 and had been ill for some time.