Mark Hamill has paid his “deepest respects” to the late Carrie Fisher

He said as he accepted his Disney Legend Award at the event: "I know if she were here this morning, she would’ve flipped me the bird, at least twice already.

"I would love to give my deepest respects to the super-cool space sis I have in Carrie Frances Fisher. We were like siblings, the good and the bad. We’d have huge fights, [saying] ’You’re such a phoney,' but we loved each other and what a great thrill it was to come back for ‘The Force Awakens’ at that time in our lives. There’s a comfort level with each other. We could rely on each other, and there’s a deep respect.”

Carrie - who played Princess Leia in the franchise alongside Mark’s Luke Skywalker - was also honoured with an award at the event, for which her 24-year-old daughter Billie Lourd wrote a letter, which was read out by Disney boss Bob Iger.

The note read: "As far back as I can remember, my mom and I have been Disney fanatics. I was so obsessed with Ariel that I wanted to change my name. We went to Disneyland so much that I now realise she might have even loved it more than I did.

“Becoming part of the Disney family was truly an amazing moment for her. She secretly always wanted to be a Disney princess, so getting to be a Disney princess and a Disney legend would have been her ultimate dream.

"I wish I could be there to accept this award on her behalf, but unfortunately, I am currently working on ‘American Horror Story’. I am beyond grateful to Mr. Iger and everyone at Disney for this incredible honour. Thank you again, and may the force be with you always.”