'Heartbroken': Actress Alexis Arquette dies at 47

Actress and transgender activist Alexis Arquette has died at the age of 47.

The actress - sibling of actors David, Rosanna, Richmond and Patricia Arquette - died on Sunday morning.

In a statement Richmond Arquette said Alexis was surrounded by family who sang David Bowie's Starman as she passed away. 

He said: "She left before we were ready to let her go.

"We are all heartbroken she is no longer with us, but we are grateful for the grace and kindness we were all shown during this difficult time."

A cause of death was not given.

During her career Alexis appeared in Pulp Fiction, Last Exit To Brooklyn, Of Mice and Men and The Bride of Chucky.

She also had roles on the small screen in Roseanne, Friends and Californication. 

Born Robert Arquette, Alexis transitioned to become a woman in 2006 - an experience which was documented in a film which screened at the 2007 Tribeca Film Festival.

She went on to become an activist for transgender rights. 

Richmond Arquette said his sister's decision to "live her truth" as a transgender woman effectively ended her career.

He said: "Despite the fact that there are few parts for trans actors, she refused to play roles that were demeaning or stereotypical.

"She was a vanguard in the fight for understanding and acceptance of all trans people."

Richmond added: "As Alexis transitioned into being a woman, she taught us tolerance and acceptance.

"As she moved through her process she became our sister, teaching us what real love is."

In one of her smaller roles Alexis Arquette played a Boy George impersonator in The Wedding Singer.

Boy George was among a number of celebrities who paid tribute.

Courteney Cox, who was married to Alexis' brother David for 14 years, tweeted: "My heart goes out to anyone who was lucky enough to know Alexis.

"We will love and miss you forever."

David Arquette added: "Thank you all for your love and kind words about Alexis.

"My hero for eternity."