The British playwright Tom Stoppard has died at the age of 88, his agent has confirmed. The Czech-born star, who was knighted in 1997, passed away at home, "surrounded by family."

The writer, was best known for writing the iconic 1998 film Shakespeare In Love, for which he won the Best Original Screenplay Oscar. The film, which starred Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes, made over £218 million at the box office.

Sir Tom was also known for penning the critically acclaimed play Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead, and the HBO limited series Parade's End in 2013.

News of his passing was announced by his agency, United Agents, on Saturday. A statement revealed: "We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved client and friend, Tom Stoppard, has died peacefully at home in Dorset,

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