British actress Rachael Stirling has spoken out after media coverage compared her to a cannibal, following her admission that she ate some of the ashes of her mother, Diana Rigg, who died in 2020.

Stirlng called it a personal tribute and said she did not anticipate the reaction it would draw.

The comparison sparked significant media interest after Stirling opened up about the private gesture she made following her mother's death.

She stressed that the act was a private form of mourning and not something she felt needed defending.

Diana Rigg was a hugely admired actress, best known for her roles in The Avengers and Game of Thrones.

Rigg's standing as a cultural icon remains significant, and Stirling has long paid tribute to her influence.

Stirlng is also expected to take part at an upcoming event in Tisbury.