Boxer and TV pundit Barry McGuigan has paid an emotional tribute to his daughter, Danika.
The 33-year-old actress had been suffering from cancer.
In a statement the family said: "It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of our beautiful daughter and sister, Danika 'Nika' McGuigan.
"After a brief but brave battle against cancer, Nika passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday 23rd July, surrounded by her loving family.
"As a family we are devastated and ask for complete privacy during this difficult period to allow us to grieve for our Nika."
The talented actress had been diagnosed with leukaemia when she was 11, after her parents spotted bruises on her arms and legs.
Her brother Shane McGuigan said she overcame with a two year fight between the ages of 11 to 13.
Barry has now broken his silence on social media with an emotional message after saying goodbye to his daughter and thanked fans for their support, the Mirror reports.
McGuigan shared a photo of the pair and wrote: "The most difficult thing I've ever had to do was to say goodbye to my amazing daughter Nika earlier this week.
"She has been a shining light in our family's lives for the past 33 years.
"Nika was an extremely talented and inspirational young lady who radiated kindness and love.
"Our hearts are broken and we know that life will never be the same again for us.
"However, Nika lives on in so many parts of our lives which we are grateful for.
"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all the people who sent flowers, cards, Mass cards, Instagram messages, Facebook , Twitter , text's and email messages of condolences and support.
"There are simply too many to answer individually so I want to use this opportunity to say a huge thank you to each and every one of you, the family greatly appreciate them."
