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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
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Tina Campbell

Tributes after death of Queen Elizabeth II: Elton John, Victoria Beckham among those paying their respects

Celebrities have paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II following her death aged 96

(Picture: Getty Images)

Celebrities including Sir Elton John, the Beckhams and even Paddington Bear are among those who have paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II after she died on September 8, aged 96.

Sir Elton said on social media he was “deeply saddened” by the Queen’s death.

“She was an inspiring presence to be around and led the country through some of our greatest and darkest moments with grace, decency and a genuine caring warmth,” the Rocketman singer said.

“Queen Elizabeth has been a huge part of my life from childhood to this day, and I will miss her dearly.”

Former Spice Girl-turned-fashion designer Victoria Beckham lamented: “Today is a very sad day not just for our country but for the entire world. I’m deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Monarch, Her Majesty The Queen.

“She will be remembered for her steadfast loyalty and service and my thoughts are with the royal family at this incredibly sad time.”

While her husband, David said her majesty had served with “dignity and grace” until her last days and had comforted the country when “times were tough”.

The former England captain added: “How devastated we all feel today shows what she has meant to people in this country and around the world. How much she inspired us with her leadership.”

Paddington Bear, who appeared in a fun sketch with Her Majesty for her Jubilee celebrations this year, tweeted: “Thank you Ma’am for everything”.

Also representing from the literary world was Harry Potter author JK Rowling, who said the Queen had done her duty “right up to her dying hours”.

“Some may find the outpouring of British shock and grief at this moment quaint or odd, but millions felt affection and respect for the woman who uncomplainingly filled her constitutional role for seventy years,” she tweeted.

“Most British people have never known another monarch, so she’s been a thread winding through all our lives.

“She did her duty by the country right up until her dying hours, and became an enduring, positive symbol of Britain all over the world. She’s earned her rest.”

TV presenters Ant and Dec issued a joint statement on social media, reading: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

“It is hard to believe she will no longer be with us. Our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with King Charles and the entire Royal Family.

“Rest In Peace Your Majesty. And thank you.”

Although ITV daytime show This Morning will not air on Friday as a mark of respect, host Holly Willoughby took the opportunity online to thank the Queen for her “lifetime of service and humble commitment to duty.”

And Britain’s Got Talent judge Simon Cowell praised the Queen for her ability to “balance great leadership, tradition and progression”

Across the pond, US Rapper Kanye West and his ex-wife Kim Kardashian also spoke out.

Sharing two images of the late monarch on Instagram, he wrote: “Life is precious.”

Kanye West wrote ‘life is precious’ as he acknowledged the Queen’s passing (Kanye West)

Adding: “Releasing all grudges today leaning into the light.”

“Rest in peace,” wrote SKIMS mogul Kardashian on her Instagram Stories over a black and white image of the Queen in her younger days.

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