Any Which Way but Loose star Sondra Locke dies aged 74

American actress and director Sondra Locke has died at the age of 74.

The Any Which Way but Loose star passed away on November 3 from a cardiac arrest, Radar Online reports.

According to the news outlet, a death certificate obtained from the Los Angeles Department of Public Health confirmed her death was linked to her ongoing battle with breast and bone cancer.

The talented actress, who famously dated actor Clint Eastwood for over 13 years, was diagnosed with cancer around three years ago for the second time in her life. Back in 1990, Locke underwent chemotherapy and a double mastectomy.

A number of fans have taken to social media to share their love for the actress and her many famous movie roles.

“RIP Sondra Locke. A key fixture in my 70s/80s film memories because of her films with Clint Eastwood & I particularly liked her in the gently nostalgic Bronco Billy,” one person wrote.

“Sondra Locke in Sudden Impact — among the great screen performances of righteous anger, the need for vengeance, and a person broken by the world. RIP,” another added.

The lights dim a little tonight for another beloved star takes her journey to the cosmos. I had the pleasure to work with Sondra Locke last year and she was the most tender and kind soul. Being around her was a gospel song.

— tyson ritter (@tysonritter) December 14, 2018

While a third said: “The lights dim a little tonight for another beloved star takes her journey to the cosmos. I had the pleasure to work with Sondra Locke last year and she was the most tender and kind soul. Being around her was a gospel song”.

Locke began her career in acting in 1967, quickly stepping into the spotlight with roles in Cover Me Babe, A Reflection of Fear and The Second Coming of Suzanne.

However, her big break was when she starred alongside Clint Eastwood in the 1975 film The Outlaw Josey Wale. This was the beginning of a long relationship both personally and professionally. 

The two starred in several big hits together such as Every Which Way But Loose, Any Which Way You Can, Bronco Billy, Sudden Impact and The Gauntlet. 

Locke and Eastwood parted ways after 13 years together when she sued him for palimony. At the time she alleged Eastwood had changed the locks on their home and taken all of her belongings.

Locke is survived by her husband Gordon Anderson. She has reportedly been laid to rest at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park & Mortuary.

Do you remember watching movies starring Sondra Locke? What is your favourite movie of hers?