Broadway star Brent Carver has died at the age of 68.

He is best known for winning a Tony award for his role as a jailed gay window-dresser in the 1993 Kander and Ebb musical Kiss Of The Spider Woman.

Carver’s family confirmed the news in a statement but did not disclose the cause of death.

“Our family is sharing news of Brent Carver’s passing on Aug 4 at home in Cranbrook, BC, his birthplace and favourite place on Earth,” they told Deadline.

“Blessed with many talents and a natural love of theatre, Brent was always known as a first-class performer, unique in the presentation of his craft, delighting audiences through film, TV, stage and concert performances.”

In his glittering stage career were Shakespeare performances that he was hailed for. He starred in The Tempest alongside Anthony Hopkins in 1979 and was in a 2013 production of Romeo and Juliet which also featured Orlando Bloom.

His career was not only on the stage though. He starred in TV movie Crossbar with Kim Cattrall and worked alongside Christopher Plummer in the 2002 drama Ararat.

As a child he grew up performing in school plays and went on to tour his native Canada in musicals in the 1970’s.

His big break came when he was involved in a production of One-Night Stand in 1977.

Tributes have poured in for the star.

His friend and Broadway star Chita Rivera said: “My heart is broken at the loss of my great friend and amazing artist #BrentCarver. I shall miss him more than I can say.”

While actress Rebecca Lock wrote: "The best song sung by the best people... God Bless Brent Carver ...sleep well"

And actress Carolee Carmello wrote: “Rest In Peace, dear Brent. You were such a brilliant talent and I was so fortunate to share a stage with you. Thank you for inspiring so many, especially me.”