American actress Karen Black, most famous for her roles in Easy Rider and Five Easy Pieces, has died in Los Angeles following a three year battle with cancer. 

Shortly after her death her husband Stephen Eckelberry broke the news on his Facebook page. 

"It is with great sadness that I have to report that my wife and best friend, Karen Black has just passed away, only a few minutes ago. Thank you all for all your prayers and love, they meant so much to her as they did to me."

An active Scientologist, Black married four times. Her most recent marriage to Eckelberry was her longest, at 26 years.

Black is survived by her son Hunter Carson and daughters Celine Eckelberry and Diane Koehnemann Bay.