BREAKING: NORA EPHORN HAS PASSED AWAY

Nora Ephron is seriously ill, according to a representative for her publisher. The Oscar nominated filmmaker is thought to be in a very bad way, with some reports suggesting she is at death's door.

Nicholas Latimer of Alfred A. Knopf confirmed her condition on Tuesday. Earlier in the day fans had burst onto the Internet to express concerns following celebrity columnist and friend Liz Smith publishing what appeared to be a memorial for the writer.

According to the Associated Press, Smith spoke to Ephron's son on Tuesday morning and was informed that the much loved filmmaker was dying. She even went as far as saying that funeral plans had already been arranged and put in place.

After hearing the sad news, Smith took to her column on Women of the Web to write her memorial piece to her friend.

No further details were listed about Ephron's precise condition, but what news was given did not seem hopeful.

Ephron is 71 years old and has had a prestigious career; she has written popular books such as "Crazy Salad" and "Heartburn." However, she may be most well known for movies "When Harry Met Sally", "Sleepless in Seattle" and "Julia & Julia."

Tags: nora ephron