Peter O'Toole: tributes pour in for 'a giant of film and theatre' Mr Higgins offered his condolences to O'Toole's family and said he would miss his "warm humour and generous friendship." "He was unsurpassed for the grace he brought to every performance on and off the stage," Mr Higgins said. Tributes have also began pouring in from Hollywood and the acting community. American director Paul Feig, of Bridesmaids fame, wrote on Twitter: "Just heard that Peter O'Toole has died. RIP, sir. You were a hilarious, talented, wild and exciting class act. We need more like him. Golden Globe-winning American actor Michael Chiklis posted: "RIP Peter O'Toole. Original, hard drinking, classic, actor's actor. The piercing blue eyes of Lawrence Of Arabia will never fade. TV personality Piers Morgan remembered spending a day at the cricket with him. "RIP Peter O'Toole," he posted on Twitter. Spent one of the funniest days of my life with him at Lord's a few years ago. A brilliant actor & crazy, hilarious man. Actress Sheridan Smith tweeted: "So sad about the death of the incredible Peter O Toole: (He saw a play I did last year & sent me & all the cast presents after. A true gent! Prime Minister David Cameron said his thoughts were with O'Toole's family and friends. "His performance in my favourite film, Lawrence of Arabia, was stunning," he said. Comedian Stephen Fry said: "Oh what terrible news. Farewell Peter O'Toole. I had the honour of directing him in a scene. Monster, scholar, lover of life, genius. Irish actor Jason O'Mara described O'Toole as "an acting legend and a hell raiser." His last act of defiance was living to see 81, but the work will live on forever. RIP Peter O'Toole," he said. Comedian David Walliams recalled when he and acting partner Matt Lucas had drinks with O'Toole in Los Angeles. "He was hugely entertaining," he said. The greatest company. A legend on screen and off.