Yuko Takeuchi: Japanese actress who starred in Miss Sherlock and The Ring dies aged 40

Japanese actress Yuko Takeuchi has been found dead at her home in Tokyo, according to the country's media.

A police investigation has been launched into the 40-year-old's death, which is suspected to be suicide, The Japan Times reported.

She was found at her home on Sunday and her death was confirmed at hospital.

Takeuchi was an award-winning actress who had featured in a number of films and TV shows during her career, including The Ring and HBO's Miss Sherlock.

She was well known in Japan, appearing in dramas Asuka and Love And Life In The White.

More recently she appeared in The Confidence Man JP: Episode of the Princess, released earlier this year.

Paying tribute, Takeuchi's talent agency told the publication: "It came all of a sudden, and we are all stunned and saddened by the news," adding that it is examining the details of the incident.

The actress leaves behind her husband Taiki Nakabayashi and two children.

The Evening Standard has contacted Takeuchi's talent industry for Stardust Promotion Inc for comment.

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK.

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