Golden Girl star has heart bypass

Golden Girls actress Rue McClanahan is recovering in a New York hospital following heart bypass surgery, her manager has said.

The 75-year-old was diagnosed with acute cardiac illness on Monday after a routine trip to her doctor who advised her to go to hospital.

"She's fine, so it could not have gone better," manager Barbara Lawrence said.

McClanahan played Southern belle Blanche Devereaux on hit US TV series from 1985 to 1992.

A gala tribute due to be held in the star's honour next week in San Francisco has now been cancelled.

In a statement, McClanahan said she regretted missing the tribute: "Unfortunately, my doctor has laid down the law, and I'm currently in the hospital having some maintenance on the old ticker."

"Trust me, I'd much rather be in San Francisco having fun and being adored by all of you."

The actress is expected to make a full recovery and begin shooting an undisclosed movie project in January.