British actress Rachael Stirling has broken her silence 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 had not expected the reaction it would draw.

The comparison sparked significant media interest after Stirling shared details of the private gesture she made following her mother's death.

She made clear that the act was deeply personal 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 well established, and Stirling has long reflected publicly on her influence.

Stirlng is also scheduled to attend at an upcoming event in Tisbury.