Legendary actor and respected movie star Patrick Swayze has died at the young age of just 57. News of the actor’s death hit mainstream media about an hour ago and has taken the world by storm.

Patrick had been battling cancer publicly for well over a year and has finally succumbed to the deadly disease this week. Friends and family are mourning the well-respected actor who stole the hearts of millions as Johnny in the hit movie Dirty Dancing.

Patrick had been living his life in the public – especially for the last year – when tabloids and media outlets criticized him for not kicking his nicotine habit and continuing to smoke cigarettes despite his cancer.

"Patrick Swayze passed away peacefully today with family at his side after facing the challenges of his illness for the last 20 months," his rep tells PEOPLE in a statement.

The tragic news has taken the media by storm and has left many fans, friends and family members in tears.

Patrick Swayze was one of the most respected actors of his generation. Hopefully – if nothing else – his death will make everyone remember how precious life really is and that each moment should be lived to the fullest.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Patrick’s family members, friends and family during this difficult time.

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