PIERS Morgan has paid tribute to legendary Bat Out Of Hell performer Meat Loaf after he died aged 74.
The star’s family this morning announced his death, confirming that he had been surrounded by his wife and family in his last moments.
Broadcaster Piers was one of the first to pay tribute to the legendary singer, saying: "RIP Meat Loaf, 74.
“One of rock music’s all-time great characters whose seminal iconic album Bat Out Of Hell is one of the biggest-selling records in history.
“A wondrously talented, flamboyant, funny, outrageous and rebellious chameleon. Sad news.”
Meat Loaf, real name Marvin Lee Aday, sold millions of albums worldwide and was honoured with the Hero Award at the annual Q Awards music ceremony in 2016.
The rock veteran had been plagued with health issues and rumours that he’s dying ever since he collapsed onstage in June 2016 and has appeared in a number of interviews with slurred speech.
In a heartbreaking tribute posted on the star's official Facebook page, it was revealed he passed away on Thursday night with wife Deborah by his side.
Most read in The Sun
NO RETURN 
Meg & Harry's 'ship has sailed' for Royal return after missing event with Kate
Top telly couple call in lawyers after X-rated sex tape leaks online
Little Mix's Perrie Edwards looks unbelievable as she poses in skimpy bikini
Pussycat Dolls' Ashley Roberts rushed to hospital over brain aneurysm fears
The statement reads: "Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side.
"Daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends have been with him throughout the last 24 hours.
? Read our Meat Loaf live blog for the latest updates on his death
"His amazing career spanned 6 decades that saw him sell over 100 Million albums worldwide and star in over 65 movies, including Fight Club, Focus, Rocky Horror Picture Show and Wayne’s World.
“Bat Out of Hell remains one of the top 10 selling albums of all time.
"We know how much he meant to so many of you and we truly appreciate all of the love and support as we move through this time of grief in losing such an inspiring artist and beautiful man.
"We thank you for your understanding of our need for privacy at this time. From his heart to your souls…don’t ever stop rocking!"
His family are yet to confirm what the cause of his death was.
'INSPIRING, BEAUTIFUL MAN'
Tributes from other famous faces have poured in, with Stephen Fry saying: “I hope paradise is as you remember it from the dashboard light, Meat Loaf.
“Had a fun time performing a sketch with him on Saturday Live way back in the last century
“He had the quality of being simultaneously frightening and cuddly, which is rare and rather wonderful.”
read more on the sun
ROCK LEGEND DEAD 
Meat Loaf died after ‘catching Covid’ aged 74, reports claim
Tearful Adele says Vegas residency is CANCELLED 24 hours before first show
Spoilt Andrew made me run upstairs to shut curtains as he sat next to them
My car broke down & AA said they can't prioritise lone women as 'it's equality'
Pete Waterman 75, appeared on today's Good Morning Britain and recalled several memories with the Bat Out Of Hell hitmaker.
Speaking to Ben Shephard and Kate Garraway, Pete said he was once on a plane to New York with Meat Loaf and he had a "cold trunk of beefburgers".
He added: "What that boy could eat I tell you, he could eat."
Boy George said: "R.I.P Meatloaf. Love and prayers to all his family and close friends.
"He once turned me upside down in a Chinese Restaurant in St Johns Wood."
His colourful career saw him not only wow fans with his music, but also with his theatrics as he appeared in more than 50 movies and television shows – including the 1997 film Spice World.
In 1973, he was cast in the original LA Roxy cast of The Rocky Horror Show, playing the parts of Eddie and Dr. Everett Scott.
Source: Read Full Article