Oscar-winning star Brenda Fricker has died

Oscar-winning Irish actress Brenda Fricker, best known for her roles in My Left Foot and Home Alone 2: Lost In New York, has died aged 81. 

The star was famous for several roles, including a stint in Casualty. Fricker also appeared in Coronation Street briefly in 1977. 

She was the first Irish actress to win an Oscar. 
 

Her agent, Phil Belfield confirmed that she died after a period of ill health. 

He said in a statement to the Press Association: “We will never see her like again and the world is lesser for the lack of her. 

“I was honoured to know, love and work with her and she will always have a place in my heart and in the heart of so many film and TV fans the world over.” 

The star was perhaps best known for her role of the Central Park Pigeon Lady in Christmas staple, Home Alone 2. 
 

Despite her many movie credits, the star has stayed out of the spotlight in recent years. 

She previously told comedian Tommy Tiernan on his show The Tommy Tiernan Show that she’s chosen a life of peaceful obscurity. 

She said: “I live a very quiet life well under the radar and I drive a tiny car, own a cottage, that’s about it. 

“Talking to the wall quite a bit, talking to the dog, writing poetry, reading books, watching television. 

“Nothing different than anybody else does, except being alone so much can make you talk to the wall a bit more than most people.” 

In a candid chat about her mental health, Home Alone 2 star Brenda Fricker revealed to Tiernan that she’s been prescribed stronger antidepressants. 

“Just yesterday, I visited the doctor who said, ‘We’re going to put you on stronger antidepressants’. 

“I’m somewhat of a recluse. Choosing to stay indoors is one thing, but being told to do so makes me want to go outside,” she admitted. 

The actress also opened up about her reliance on medication and her time at St Patrick’s Hospital in Dublin, which she described as invaluable to her mental health. 

She said: “It was tough, but there was a fantastic doctor, Anthony Clare. He saved my life. He was exceptional with me. He really pulled me out of the depths. Just an incredible mind. He understood me and reached me. I always left feeling happy after seeing him. He made me feel good.” 

Tributes have been pouring in for the star.