Tributes poured in for Paul Newman on Saturday after the Hollywood screen legend and philanthropist died following a long battle with cancer aged 83.

Family and friends of the iconic actor, who passed away on Friday, mourned the loss of a loving family man and passionate humantirian who in the words of many, had lived an "exemplary life."

Paul Newman's daughters led the tributes, citing the "selfless humility and generosity" that characterized their father's life.

"Paul Newman played many unforgettable roles," the statement read.

"But the ones for which he was proudest never had top billing on the marquee. Devoted husband. Loving father. Adoring grandfather. Dedicated philanthropist."

"Our father was a rare symbol of selfless humility, the last to acknowledge what he was doing was special," his daughters said Saturday. "Intensely private, he quietly succeeded beyond measure in impacting the lives of so many with his generosity.

"Always and to the end, Dad was incredibly grateful for his good fortune. In his own words, 'it's been a privilege to be here.'"

The Motion Picture Association of America said Newman's charitable deeds — his foundation has donated more than 100 million dollars to worthy causes — would rival his acting legacy.

"The art of film-making and a world in great need of big hearts with bold ambitions is mourning the loss of a legend today," MPAA chairman Dan Glickman said. "He will be remembered as an artist, gentleman and humanitarian whose extraordinary career was rivaled in every respect by an exemplary life.

"Incredibly, the effect of his charitable work will rival and perhaps even exceed the legacy he leaves us all on the silver screen. At a time in our history when the world desperately needs citizens with the power and instinct to both create and to give back, Paul Newman will truly be missed.

Veteran Italian screen goddess Gina Lollobrigida echoed the MPAA's tribute. "He was a marvellous actor and human being, serious, with an exemplary life who has contributed enormously to world cinema," the ANSA news agency quoted her as saying. "He is a man to respect and appreciate."

Newman's partners from the Newman/Haas/Lanigan IndyCar Series Racing Team — reflecting the actor's passion for motorsport — mourned the loss of "great human being."

"Paul and I have been partners for 26 years and I have come to know his passion, humor and above all, his generosity," said co-owner Carl A. Haas.

"Not just economic generosity, but generosity of spirit. His support of the team's drivers, crew and the racing industry is legendary.

"His pure joy at winning a pole position or winning a race exemplified the spirit he brought to his life and to all those that knew him. We will truly miss him."

One of the team's former drivers, Bobby Rahal, described his former boss as a "man of class."

"I had the pleasure of driving for Mr. Newman in 1981 and I was richer for the experience," Rahal said. "He was a man of class and he was also deservedly very highly regarded for his driving skills.

"The world is a poorer place today for his passing."