Reality TV star David Gest, the former husband of Liza Minnelli, has died in a London hotel at age 62.
The former Celebrity Big Brother star was married to Minnelli from 2002-2003, but they only officially divorced in 2007.
He was also known for being a close friend of the late Michael Jackson.
The TV personality gained a following in the United Kingdom recently when he appeared on Celebrity Big Brother.
His friend Imad Handi confirmed the death on Tuesday.
"David was truly larger than life. He was not just a huge talent and a dear friend but a showbiz icon," Handi said.
"I know he will be missed by millions of fans around the world, and particularly in Britain, who came to love his charm and blistering one-liners."
"If I may steal the words of one eminent critic, David was a natural star and a genuine celebrity. I will miss him desperately."
A Scotland Yard spokesman said police were called to the Four Seasons hotel in Westferry Circus shortly after 10am on Tuesday to reports of an unexplained death of a man in his 60s.
Gest was pronounced dead at the scene.
"A post-mortem will be held in due course. Next of kin are in the process of being informed."
