Actor Bill Paxton dies at age 61...

Actor Bill Paxton has died at the age of 61 because of complications following a surgery, his family said. 

The Titanic and Aliens star passed away on Saturday, according to TMZ.

He was in a host of Hollywood hits, including Twister, and had an Emmy for Hatfields and McCoys. 

Paxton was on a CBS series, Training Day at the time of his death, and recently said he was 'thrilled' to have his son James Paxton to guest-star on an episode.  

His family said in a statement: 'It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery.' 

They added that he had an 'illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker.' 

The statement went on: 'Bill's passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable.

Paxton leaves behind two children. He was married to his second wife, Louise Newbury, at the time of his death. 

He was born in Fort Worth, Texas, and his father John Paxton was also an actor, having worked on several Spiderman films.