Carrie Fisher, the actress who became a pop culture icon for her performance as Princess Leia in Star Wars, has died at age 60.

Fisher had suffered a massive heart attack last week on a flight from London to Los Angeles. On Sunday, her family said she was in stable condition.

A representative of Fisher's daughter, Bille Lourd, confirmed that Fisher died on Tuesday morning.

Fisher shot to fame at the age of 19, when she took on her instantly iconic role in Star Wars.

As Leia Organa, she seemed to be taking on the role of damsel in distress — appearing as a hologram begging for help. But she was no helpless heroine: Princess Leia was an indomitable, independent rebel leader.

When the Star Wars franchise returned last year in The Force Awakens, Fisher's role reflected the strength she'd always given her character: Princess Leia was now General Organa.

The actress returns for the next installment, Episode VIII, which is set for release in December 2017. People magazine reports Fisher had already filmed scenes for the film, and The Los Angeles Times says shooting is completed — though what role Leia plays in the movie, like other elements of the film, is "tightly under wraps."

Fisher also appeared in Austin Powers, The Blues Brothers, Charlie's Angels and When Harry Met Sally..., among other films. 

(NPR)