Amadeus playwright Sir Peter Shaffer, age 90

Sir Peter Shaffer, celebrated writer of Equus and Amadeus, has died aged 90 after a short illness.

The renowned playwright died at Marymount Hospice in Ireland, with family by his side, his agent said.

A statement from Macnaughton Lord Representation said: “It is with great sorrow that we must announce the death of our friend and client, Sir Peter Shaffer CBE whilst on a visit to Ireland with friends and family.

“His great friend and American agent, Dennis Aspland, remained with him in Ireland throughout his short illness.

“He had been struggling with his health for some time, but was both determined and delighted to have been able to celebrate his 90th birthday in Ireland last month with close family and friends.”

Respected as “one of the true greats of British theatre”, he was also described by his spokesman as “a wonderful friend, wickedly funny man and sparkling raconteur” who also had a love of “music, painting and architecture”.

His agent said his close family and friends would like to thank the staff who “cared for him so well” at Bon Secours Hospital and Marymount Hospice.

Sir Peter wrote more than 18 plays including the 1975 Tony award-winning Equus and Amadeus, which won eight Academy Awards when it was adapted for the big screen in 1984.

Other famous works include Black Comedy, Lettice And Lovage, The Royal Hunt Of The Sun and Five Finger Exercise.

Much of his working life was linked to the National Theatre, for which several of his plays were written and first produced.

Sir Peter, who was knighted in 2001, is survived by his brother Brian, nephews Milo and Mark and nieces Cressida and Claudia.

Sir Peter was knighted in 2001.