The shock news from Minnesota is that Prince has died.
Reports came through earlier this afternoon that the Carver County Sheriffs Department had been called to his Paisley Park estate following reports of a death.
"We are not releasing any information regarding the identity of the person who died until next of kin is notified," a spokesperson said.
At 6pm Irish time, major news organisations started reporting that it was the singer, who'd hospitalised recently with the flu. He was taken ill whilst flying back from a concert in Atlanta, but following his discharge was spotted at a dance party.
Now it’s been confirmed by a publicist that His Royal Purpleness has passed away.
Those reacting to the news include LaToya Jackson who says: “What a sad day! Terribly sorry to hear that Prince has passed! What an incredible talent”, Spice Girl Emma Bunton who reflects: “A music legend. The world has lost a bit of magic today”, and Sean Ono Lennon who adds: “Can't stop crying. This year has been too much”.
Piers Morgan writes: “Prince was the greatest live performer I ever saw. A musical genius ablaze with astounding, sexually charged energy. Loved him”, while Elijah Woods reacts: “Can’t even process this. There will never be another. Thank you for everything, Prince Rogers Nelson.”
The word from E Street Band man Nils Lofgren is: “Utterly gutted and devastated by the passing of the genius that is Prince. RIP comrade” and Nile Rodgers tweets: “‪RIP‪ our dearly beloved Prince. Tears and love on our tour bus. I'll never forget my brother. We've had good times‬.”
His huge celebrity fan club also included Katy Perry who says: "And just like that... the world lost a lot of magic. Rest in peace Prince! Thanks for giving us so much", and MC Hammer who writes: "I loved this man. Too soon. Can't comprehend it but it's unfortunately true. Heaven is yours. RIP."
Paloma Faith reflects: "The greatest living musician is now no longer with us and I'm distraught. It was a pleasure to share a stage with him. Prince fly with the doves."