Julie Andrews pays tribute to 'one of a kind' husband

Director Blake Edwards, 88, died at St John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California, yesterday with his actress wife of 41 years and other family members at his side.

“Blake was one of a kind on and off the stage,” the Sound Of Music star said.

“He was my mate in life in every way possible, and shall forever be in my heart. He will be missed beyond words.”

The US film-maker was behind such movie greats as Breakfast At Tiffany's, 10, and the Pink Panther series.

He received the lifetime achievement award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2004 and was twice nominated for an Oscar.

Edwards' CV also included Victor/Victoria – the 1982 movie musical starring Andrews – and the 1962 drama, The Days Of Wine And Roses, which starred Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick as a young couple battling alcoholism.

Edwards made his film debut as an actor more than 60 years ago in Ten Gentlemen From West Point. He wrote his first film, Panhandle, which he also produced, in 1948.

He is survived by five children, seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.