Sir Rod Stewart, 79, has posted a touching tribute to his “true friend” Richard Perry after the producer passed away on Christmas Eve. Perry died aged 82 during a hospital stay amid a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Richard Perry died in a Los Angeles hospital on Tuesday following a cardiac arrest. The producer, who worked with Rod and The Beatles, "maximised his time here", his friend Daphna Kastner confirmed. After hearing the news, Sir Rod took to his social media to pay tribute to the star.

Sir Rod Stewart said he was "in tears" and "devastated" as he announced the death of his close friend on Christmas Day.

Rod Stewart and his wife Penny Lancaster are heartbroken this Christmas after the shock death of their dearest friend, music producer Richard Perry

Rod Stewart has announced the death of his "dearest" friend, music producer Richard Perry, who died following a cardiac arrest in Los Angeles earlier this week

Sir Rod Stewart, legendary singer and songwriter, is in deep sorrow as he has shared heartbreak post after losing his dearest friend during the Christmas season. The 79-year-old music icon

Rod Stewart paid an emotional tribute to his 'dear buddy' Richard Perry after he passed away following a cardiac arrest on Christmas Eve

Sir Rod Stewart has paid tribute to his "dear buddy" Richard Perry after the legendary music producer died in hospital

Rod Stewart has been left heartbroken as he paid tribute to his 'true friend' Richard Perry on Instagram on Wednesday after the music producer died aged 82.