Irish actress Slaine Kelly has sadly passed away at just 43 years old, leaving behind her young son, Knox.

The Dublin woman, who starred in The Tudors, alongside Jonathan-Rhys Meyers, died on Saturday 4 July. Her cause of death hasn’t been officially revealed, but actor Paddy Courtney said: ‘Her life was stolen by cancer.’

Slaine is survived by both her mum and dad, Marion and Joe, her brother Darragh and Knox, who is 11.

The actress is best known for her role in the iconic 2009 Barry’s Tea ad, which saw Slaine work alongside Love Hate actress Charlie Murphy.

The mum-of-one, who also worked as a film producer, is responsible for Irish comedy The O’Briens, which she made and starred in.

Slaine’s death notice reveals she passed away peacefully at home in Dublin, with her family by her side.

The star also had a deep love of animals. She helped found St Anne’s City Farm, a community volunteer-led farm located in St Anne’s Park.

‘Slaine Kelly, Allen Terrace, Dublin. Passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family,’ the late star’s RIP.ie death notice read.

‘An actress, film producer, Slaine will be fondly remembered for her work, her spirit, and for helping to found St Anne’s City Farm,’ the statement read.

Tributes poured in for Slaine, with actor Paddy Courtney writting: ‘Her life was stolen by cancer, but her spirit of giddy curiosity & divilment will live on in all those who knew her.’

‘I was lucky enough to circle her orbit in many roles as pal, co-star and confidant,’ he penned.

Fair City’s Jenny Dixon also paid tribute, writing: ‘It’s so very very sad, no words, Slaine x.’

Slaine’s family request that donations be made to My Lovely Horse Rescue. Watch Slaine’s well-known Barry’s Tea ad below: