Hollywood heart-throb Patrick Swayze, best known for his roles in the hit films Dirty Dancing and Ghost, has died at the age of 57.The American actor and dancer had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer two years ago.
Swayze died at home with wife Lisa and family at his side, his spokeswoman Annett Wolf told ABC News.
Film star Rob Lowe - who appeared in a brace of movies with the actor - led tributes to the Texan.
"Patrick lived a thousand lifetimes in one lifetime," he said.
"He was an expert dancer, he wrote hit songs, he starred in hit movies, he was an amazing horseman.
"But the thing I will remember him most for was his amazing love affair with his wife Lisa."
Swayze will be remembered by a generation for his role as dance instructor Johnny Castle in the 1987 smash hit Dirty Dancing.
The celebrated performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
When I think of him, I think of being in his arms when we were kids, dancing, practicing the lift in the freezing lake.Three years later he was cast in another hugely popular role, as Sam Wheat in Ghost.
His poignant performance as Demi Moore's dead partner earned him another Golden Globe nomination.
Moore issued a Twitter message: "Patrick you are loved by so many and your light will forever shine in all of our lives."
For more on Patrick Swayze's film hits go to the Sky Movies site.
After two huge successes, Swayze's career suffered in the 1990s.
He admitted having an alcohol problem and spent time in rehab.
In 2003, he took to the stage as Billy Flynn in Chicago on Broadway.
Three years later, he made his West End debut as Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls.
In March 2008, Swayze was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
He vowed to keep working while receiving treatment.