Tina Turner issues statement on Ike Turner's death

Tina Turner last night issued a blunt statement in response to news of the death of her ex husband Ike.

The singing legend - who was brutally beaten during her marriage to the rock and roll pioneer - had little to say about his death.

A spokesman for the singer said: "Tina is aware that Ike passed away earlier today.

"She has not had any contact with him in 35 years. No further comment will be made."

Ike Turner, 76, died at his home in San Diego.

There has been no immediate word on the cause of death.

The musician was played by Laurence Fishburne in the movie "What's Love Got To Do With It," based on Tina Turner's autobiography.

The musician blamed the film for demonizing him as the drug-addicted, abusive husband of Tina Turner - claims he always denied.