DMX, American rapper and actor, dies aged 50

US rapper and actor DMX has died at the age of 50, five days after suffering a heart attack.

The performer, whose real name was Earl Simmons, had been placed on life support and died with his family by his side.

Rest In Peace DMX 🕊🙏🏾 Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world

— Mark Phillips (@SupremeDreams_1) April 9, 2021

In a statement, his family said he had been "a warrior who fought till the very end".

DMX, aka Dark Man X, was a leading hip-hop performer who collaborated with such artists as JAY-Z, Ja Rule and LL Cool J.

RIP DMX. I pray for the comfort of your children and loved ones. 🙏🏿💛 pic.twitter.com/WC5LsaL9j8

— Viola Davis (@violadavis) April 9, 2021

He took his moniker from the name of a drum machine used in rap tracks.

The chart-topping artist's songs included Party Up (Up in Here) and X Gon' Give It To Ya.

He also acted on screen, appearing in such films as Cradle 2 the Grave, Romeo Must Die and Exit Wounds.

DMX publicly battled substance abuse for years and spent several periods in rehab.

He served jail sentences on charges including animal cruelty, reckless driving, drug possession and weapons possession.