Patrick Swayze died today at the age of 57. Swayze died after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 20 months ago in March of 2008. Swayze’s publicist, Annett Wolf, said today:

“Patrick Swayze passed away peacefully today with family at his side after facing the challenges of his illness for the last 20 months.”

Swayze recently filmed an A&E drama called The Beast, and compiled a memoir with his wife.

We are very sad to lose another good Hollywood actor.

Since being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier this year, Patrick has been receiving treatment at Stanford Medical Center. Patrick admitted to smoking up to 3 packs of ciggies a day and thinks that may have been a cause of his cancer.

Patrick Swayze arrived at LAX yesterday and told the paps:

“I’m cookin’. I’m a miracle dude! I don’t know why.”

I know why. My nightly chanting of “She’s Like the Wind” must have paid off. It’s nice to see his ass looking hot. Hopefully, he quits the ciggies and continues to do well.

Patrick Swayze issued a statement this week that said he had an “excellent” response to treatment for his pancreatic cancer.

“We’re thrilled and grateful for the positive response Patrick has shown towards his treatment,” the Dirty Dancing star and wife Lisa Niemi tell People.

“Also, we can’t help but feel that all the prayers, meditations and good thoughts sent his way by everyone has made a difference. Thank you!” said the couple.

His physician, Dr. George Fisher, added: “Patrick Swayze continues to respond well to his treatment for pancreatic cancer. Because of his excellent response, he will continue the same therapy at Stanford.”

Patrick confirmed rumors last month that he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest forms of cancer. The 55 year old actor has undergone chemotherapy to treat the disease.