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Dead or Alive and Celebrity Big Brother star Pete Burns dies at 57

Dead or Alive singer and former Celebrity Big Brother star Pete Burns has died after suffering a 'massive' cardiac arrest, aged 57.

In a statement, his management said he died suddenly on Sunday.

"It is with the greatest sadness that we have to break the tragic news that our beloved Pete Burns (of Dead Or Alive) died suddenly yesterday of a massive cardiac arrest," the statement said.

"All of his family and friends are devastated by the loss of our special star.

"He was a true visionary, a beautiful talented soul, and he will be missed by all who loved and appreciated everything he was and all of the wonderful memories the has left us with.

"We have no more words, we will make a further statement when we have had a chance to come to terms with our devastating loss.

"He will live forever in our memories."

Burns was best known for You Spin Me Round (Like a Record), his biggest hit with Dead or Alive, as well as his appearance on Celebrity Big Brother in 2006 and his love of plastic surgery.

He also appeared on Celebrity Wife Swap and The Body Shocking Show.

Speaking to Sky News, former '80s pop star Marilyn said the star seemed "amazing" when he saw him a few weeks ago.

He described the singer as "full of life and effusive", adding: "He believed in what he was doing and believed in what he wore and the way he presented himself and he stood up for that.

"He always stood up for one's own individuality - that resonated with me because that's my baseline. He didn't suffer fools gladly, which I also agree with.

"I'll always remember his strength of character, his fearlessness, and his voice. He demanded to be heard, and a lot of people heard him! They resonated with what he was saying. I'm really sad that he'll no longer be heard."

Friends have also paid tribute on social media following the shock announcement.

George Galloway, who appeared in the same series of Celebrity Big Brother, posted: "Sad to hear of the demise of Pete Burns.

"He was a cross between Oscar Wilde and Dorothy Parker. You don't get more brilliant than that. RIP."

Preston, the Ordinary Boys frontman who also appeared on Celebrity Big Brother alongside the singer, tweeted: "Heartbroken to hear about Pete Burns.

"He was a true punk rocker and one of the kindest hearts I've ever known. Gutted."

Boy George tweeted: "Tearful about the passing of Pete Burns. He was one of our great true eccentrics and such a big part of my life! Wow. Hard to believe!"

Television presenter Jamie East said: "So desperately sad to hear about Pete Burns. A true pop icon and a really, really fun fella to work and hang out with. Sleep well buddy."

DJ Matthew Rudd said: "Pete Burns' death is tragic. A showman. Angry, engaging, opinionated, fiery singer, great stage presence, clearly vulnerable. RIP fella."