HELEN MIRREN 'HE WAS SO SPECIAL TO ME'

TRAGEDY LEAVES THE STAR AND HER FAMILY HEARTBROKEN

Helen Mirren and her husband, director Taylor Hackford, are "heartbroken" following the death of his son, Rio, at the age of 51.

In a statement, Helen and Taylor, 77, revealed Rio died of uveal melanoma, an aggressive and rare form of cancer that attacks the eye.

"Rio's life showed us how to live in generosity and community," the grieving couple said.

The actress implored people to get their eyes tested, after stepson Rio Hackford died from eye cancer.

Sources tell New Idea that Helen, 76, hasn't left Taylor's side since they were informed of the devastating news.