A host of stars have paid tribute to the late film director Nora Ephron.

The legendary screenwriter-and-filmmaker passed away in a New York City hospital at the age of 71 yesterday and her death has touched the lives of those who admired her.

Nora, a three-time nominee for the best screenplay Oscar, is famed for her romantic comedies including When Harry Met Sally... and Sleepless in Seattle.

Actor Justin Timberlake took to his Twitter page to remember the American star.

"R.I.P. Nora Ephron... Funny, charming, witty, full of heart, and one of the greatest who put it all down in timeless, quotable classics (sic)," he wrote.

Glee star Chris Colfer also gushed about Nora's talents as a filmmaker, while Denise Richards sent her condolences to the star's nearest and dearest.

"Nora Ephron, thank you for sharing your gifts with the world. Such an inspiring legacy you leave (sic)," Chris posted on his personal page.

"So sad about Nora Ephron we lost a legend...my heart goes out to her loved ones (sic)," Denise added.

Tributes to Nora weren't only from those in the film and TV business. Esteemed fashion designer Diane Von Furstenberg remembered the star and also took to her Twitter page to send her condolences.

"Nora Ephron, talented, wonderful writer and director has left us...will miss her strength, fragility and humour ! love is life Diane (sic)," she wrote.

Nora's son told the New York Times she died in Manhattan of complications relating to acute myeloid leukaemia.