James Bond star Emilio Echevarria dies aged 80

Sad news

The Mexican film star famous for his role as Raoul in the twentieth James Bond film Die Another Day.

The actor also featured in the 2006 Brad Pitt film Babel.

He was well known in Mexico, featuring in a host of Spanish and English language films.

Echevarria's death was announced by The Mexican Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences.

A statement read: "The AMACC regrets to announce the sad death of actor Emilio Echevarria, who forged an enormous career in film and theatre. He received three Ariel nominations for his participation as a supporting actor."

Beginning in theatre, Echevarria moved onto cinema in the 1980s, starring as El Chivo in the Oscar nominated drama Amores Perros (2000) and even portraying Mexican president Antonio López de Santa Anna in The Alamo (2004)

Screenwriter Guillermo Arriaga led tributes for the actor.

He said: "Sad news for those of us who loved and admired him. Emilio Echevarria has died. A tremendous actor and an even better human being. A dear friend. I had the privilege of collaborating with him on several productions. A great man."