British actress Rachael Stirling has pushed back 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 called it 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 made clear that the act was an intimate farewell and not something she felt warranted criticism.

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

Rigg's standing as a cultural icon remains well established, and Stirling has long reflected publicly on her influence.

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