A well-known Russian ballerina has died aged 39 after reportedly falling from a balcony while taking painkillers.

Vladimir Shklyarov, one of the world’s top male ballet stars, died Saturday night, according to the Mariinsky Theatre, where he was a principal dancer.

The St Petersburg theater said: “This is a great loss for the entire staff of the Mariinsky Theatre.

“We extend our condolences to the artist’s family, friends and all fans of his work and talent.”

A spokesman for the theater also told Russian media over the weekend that he fell from the fifth floor of a building and was taking “serious painkillers” for a back injury.

Dancers pay tribute to Shklyarov, who was married to company dancer Maria Shklyarov and had two children.

Former ballerina Irina Bartnovskaya said that at the time of Mr. Shklyarov’s death, she was preparing for foot surgery by taking painkillers at home.

He continued in his post on Telegram: “He went to the balcony to get some air and smoke, lost his balance (it’s a very narrow balcony) and fell from the 5th floor.

“Stupid, excruciating accident.”

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Mariinsky Theater ballerina Diana Vishneva was also among those who paid tribute.

He said: “This tragedy brings only tears and sadness.”

An investigation has been launched into the death, state news group RIA Novosti reported.

The outlet also said that the initial cause of death is believed to be an accident.

Sky News has contacted the Mariinsky Theater and the St Petersburg ballet company for comment.