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 described the act as a personal tribute and said she had not expected the reaction it would draw.

The comparison caught public attention after Stirling opened up about the private gesture she made following her mother's death.

She emphasised that the act was a private form of mourning and not something she felt warranted criticism.

Diana Rigg was a widely respected actress, recognised for her roles in The Avengers and Game of Thrones.

Rigg's legacy in British television and theatre remains significant, and Stirling has long spoken warmly about her influence.

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