Marion Ramsey, known to many for her role as Officer Laverne Hooks in the Police Academy films, has died. She was 73.

Her agent announced the news but did not give a cause of death. A statement said: "Her passion for performing and sharing her heart with the world was immense. Marion carried with her a kindness and permeating light that instantly filled a room upon her arrival. The dimming of her light is already felt by those who knew her well. We will miss her, and always love her."

She also starred on Broadway in the 1978 production Eubie!, about celebrated jazz pianist Eubie Blake. Other notable roles were in Hello Dolly!, Grind and Dreamgirls.

Marion Ramsey also appeared in the hit sitcom The Jeffersons and was a regular on Cos, Bill Cosby's sketch show.

In 1993 she appeared in panto in the UK, starring alongsde Bradley Walsh in a production of Cinderella at the Beck Theatre.

Watch Marion Ramsey in Police Academy below

Picture: Panto Archive/Twitter