Patrick Swayze died last night following a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

The Dirty Dancing star's publicist confirmed he passed away peacefully in LA with his family by his side.

His spokeswoman Annett Wolf said: "Patrick Swayze passed away peacefully today (Monday) with family at his side after facing the challenges of his illness for the last 20 months."

The 57-year-old announced he had the illness in March 2008 but continued to work throughout his treatment and even filmed an American A&E drama series, The Beast.

After announcing he was suffering with the fatal disease the star begn writing his memoirs and in recent months it was reported his condition was improving.

But last night, surrounded by his family, the actor finally lost his battle.