Jackie Collins has died at age 77.

The acclaimed novelist, who sold over 500 million copies of her books worldwide, passed away after a battle with breast cancer today (September 19). According to Entertainment Weekly, Collins was originally diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer over six years ago, "but kept the diagnosis private."

"It is with tremendous sadness that we announce the death of our beautiful, dynamic and one of a kind mother, Jackie Collins, who died of breast cancer today. She lived a wonderfully full life and was adored by her family, friends and the millions of readers who she has been entertaining for over four decades. She was a true inspiration, a trailblazer for women in fiction and a creative force. She will live on through her characters, but we already miss her beyond words," the family said in a statement on her official website.

The prolific writer released dozens of novels in her career including The Stud, The World is Full of Divorced Women and The Bitch, and was known for her risque brand of storytelling, exploring the secret, salacious scandals of Hollywood. 'I write about real people in disguise. If anything, my characters are toned down — the truth is much more bizarre,' she said of her writing style.

"She was my best friend. I admire how she handled this. She was a wonderful, brave and a beautiful person and I love her," her sister, actress Joan Collins, said of the news in an interview with People Magazine.

"#RIPJackie Collins. I always loved our interviews," Oprah tweeted earlier this evening.

According to the official website, services will be held privately with the family in both the United States and the UK, and donations can be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Organization.

In her memory, check out a few interviews with Jackie below, as well as a French and Saunders skit based on the life of Joan and Jackie Collins. Rest in peace.

Stars We've Lost Over The Years

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