Hollywood reacts to Mandela's death

Morgan Freeman has said the world has lost a man of 'incomparable honour' following the death of Nelson Mandela at the age of 95.

Freeman played the former South African president in the film 'Invictus', directed by Clint Eastwood and starring alongside Matt Damon, who played Springboks captain Francois Pienaar.

“Today the world lost one of the true giants of the past century,” said Freeman.

“Nelson Mandela was a man of incomparable honour, unconquerable strength, and unyielding resolve - a saint to many, a hero to all who treasure liberty, freedom and the dignity of humankind.

“As we remember his triumphs, let us, in his memory, not just reflect on how far we’ve come, but on how far we have to go.

“Madiba may no longer be with us, but his journey continues on with me and with all of us.”

Denzel Washington added that he was 'honoured and humbled to call Nelson Mandela a friend of our entire family'.

[Prince William pays tribute to Nelson Mandela at movie premiere]

“He will continue to live through all of us as a symbol of hope, faith and strength.”

Actor Forest Whitaker said: “Nelson Mandela was a man who unified the world with his convictions and grace.

“He cultivated human dignity while moving a nation from the shackles of apartheid to reconciliation. He defended tirelessly and with passion human rights and, through love, nurtured humanity's hopes and dreams.

“Madiba was an elevated being who taught us that from forgiveness can spring new life, a new country, and a new world.

“I walk on the strength of his ideals and I am inspired by his courage and convictions to always believe in the light that exists in all of us.”

Many others tweeted their sadness at the news.