The star of a string of successful film musicals was also known for her work as an animal welfare activist

• Peter Bradshaw on Doris Day: the wholesome face of postwar American optimism

Doris Day, the actor, singer and animal welfare activist, has died at the age of 97. The Doris Day Animal Foundation confirmed the news.

Born Doris Mary Ann Kappelhoff in Cincinnati, Ohio, Day was known for a string of successful musicals and romantic comedies, including Pillow Talk, as well as a singing career that encompassed 29 studio albums.