The showbiz icon passed away overnight at her home in Marbella, Spanish police have confirmed.
Early indications suggest she died of natural causes.
The Daily Telegraph quoted a police spokesperson as saying: "We are still awaiting autopsy results but everything at this stage is pointing towards her death being the result of natural causes".
The Liverpool-born star shot to fame in the 1960s with the number one singles Anyone Who Had A Heart and You're My World.
She went on to present the hit television programmes Surprise Surprise and Blind Date, which ran for 18 years.
Tributes have begun pouring in for the TV star.
Journalist Piers Morgan told Sky News she was "a consummate, all-round entertainer".
He said: "You use that phrase 'national treasure' quite a lot these days, people do. I just think her case it is absolutely right.
"She's a rare example of that phrase being spot on.
Actress Joan Collins tweeted: "I am so sad and shocked by news about my good friend Cilla. She was a resplendent and rare talent. RIP".
TV presenter Caroline Flack wrote: "Very sad news about Cilla Black. She was an inspiration to me growing up. X".
Born Priscilla Maria Veronica White, Black began her career as a part-time cloakroom attendant at the famous Cavern Club in Liverpool, where the Beatles regularly played.
She quickly impressed the band with her impromptu performances at the club and was introduced Brian Epstein - who went on to sign her as his only female client - by John Lennon.
Cilla Black is survived by three sons.
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