Charlie Watts, the drummer of the legendary rock group The Rolling Stones has died at age 80.

His publicist confirmed the sad news in a brief statement issued via The Rolling Stones’ social media accounts, saying he passed away peacefully in a London hospital on Tuesday.

“It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts,” the statement read.

“He passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family. Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also, as a member of the Rolling Stones, one of the greatest drummers of his generation.”

A slew of stars have shared tributes to Charlie on their social media in the wake of his death. Paul McCartney shared a video where he said: “So sad to hear about Charlie Watts, the Stones drummer dying. He was a lovely guy, and I knew he was ill, but I didn’t know he was this ill. So lots of love to his family, his wife and kids, his extended family. And condolences to the Stones, it will be a huge blow to them because Charlie was a rock. A fantastic drummer, steady as a rock. Love you Charlie. I’ve always loved you, beautiful man. Great condolences and sympathies to his family.”

Elton John said: “A very sad day. Charlie Watts was the ultimate drummer. The most stylish of men, and such brilliant company. My deepest condolences to Shirley, Seraphina and Charlotte. And of course, The Rolling Stones.”

Ringo Starr added: “#God bless Charlie Watts, we’re going to miss you man, peace and love to the family, Ringo.”

The sad news comes just three weeks after Charlie abruptly pulled out of the band’s North America No Filter tour, which was kicking off at the end of September, after undergoing an unspecified medical procedure for an unknown condition.

“Charlie has had a procedure which was completely successful, but his doctors this week concluded that he now needs proper rest and recuperation,” he publicist said at the time.

Meanwhile, Charlie said: “For once, my timing has been a little off. I am working hard to get fully fit but I have today accepted on the advice of the experts that this will take a while.

“After all the fans’ suffering caused by Covid, I really do not want the many fans who have been holding tickets for this tour to be disappointed by another postponement or cancellation. I have therefore asked my great friend Steve Jordan to stand in for me.”