Nora Ephron

Nora Ephron has died at the age of 71.

The 'When Harry Met Sally' screenwriter passed away in a New York hospital on Tuesday evening (06-26-12) from pneumonia brought on by acute myeloid leukemia, and Hollywood stars she worked with over the years have paid tribute to the writer and director.

Billy Crystal, who starred opposite Meg Ryan in 'When Harry Met Sally' said: ''I am very sad to learn of Nora's passing. She was a brilliant writer and humorist.

''Being her Harry to Meg's Sally will always have a special place in my heart. I was very lucky to get to say her words.''

Three-time Oscar nominee Nora had a penchant for romantic comedies, penning iconic scripts like 'Sleepless in Seattle' and 'You've Got Mail' and most recently 'Julie & Julia' in 2009.

'Bewitched' actress Nicole Kidman commented:''She was so smart, warm and funny. I am so grateful that she was my friend and we had the opportunity to work together.

''My thoughts and love are with her family at this time. I will never forget the dinners, games and laughter we all shared.''

Meryl Streep, who starred in 'Heartburn' and 'Julie & Julia' also paid tribute, saying: ''Nora just looked at every situation and cocked her head and thought, 'Hmmmm, how can I make this more fun?'

''You could call on her for anything: doctors, restaurants, recipes, speeches, or just a few jokes, and we all did it, constantly. She was an expert in all the departments of living well.''

Nora - who has also worked alongside Hollywood stars including Tom Hanks, Steve Martin and Juliette Lewis - leaves behind her third husband Nicholas Pileggi, and two sons Jacob and Max from her second marriage.

© Bang Showbiz