Tributes to Richard Griffiths

Emma Watson, who starred alongside Richard Griffiths in the Harry Potter films, has added her voice to the tributes for the actor.

The actor James Corden has paid an affectionate tribute to his friend and mentor Richard Griffiths who has died at the age of 65.

In a tribute in the Guardian, Corden describes Griffiths as the "ninth history boy" who was nicknamed Rizzo by the company.

On his first day of rehearsals he describes how the experienced actor imparted some profound wisdom: "Don't look so frightened," he said with the broadest smile. "The scary days working here are when you get your first payslip."

Tribute have come in thick and fast for popular character actor Richard Griffiths, who died at the age of 65.

ITV News Reporter Martha Fairlie looks back on his career:

The director of the award winning play The History Boys has paid tribute to the actor Richard Griffiths, describing him as an "extraordinary actor with a huge versatility".

Griffiths received a Tony Award and a Lawrence Olivier Award for his portrayal of the eccentric teacher Hector in the production.

Nicholas Hytner, who is also the Director of the National Theatre, said the role was the "pinnacle of a remarkable career".

Actor Richard E Grant has tweeted that he is "raising a figurative glass" to Richard Griffiths, with whom he starred in the 1987 film Withnail and I.

He also commiserated with Daniel Radcliffe that both actors had "lost an uncle," since Griffiths played 'Uncle Vernon' opposite Radcliffe as well as 'Uncle Monty' opposite Grant.

Thea Sharrock, who directed Richard Griffiths in Equus, Heroes and Sunshine Boys, said of the actor:

Richard E Grant, who starred in iconic British film Withnail and I with Richard Griffiths, paid respect to his "dear old friend."

Sir Nicholas Hytner, who directed Griffiths in the hit stage show The History Boys, has said the actor was always the life and soul of the party: