patrick swayze died:Patrick Swayze Died Rumor Denied

Patrick Swayze, whose battle with pancreatic cancer was first announced last year, has not died, contrary to a false rumor that was widely circulated Tuesday morning, the actor’s rep said.

“This is to confirm that Patrick Swayze did not pass away this morning contrary to severely reckless reports stemming from a radio station in Jacksonville, Florida,” says Annett Wolf. “Patrick Swayze is alive, well and is enjoying his life and he continues to respond to treatment.”

Since news of his disease was made public, Swayze, 56, has been the subject of speculation about his health.

In March, he told PEOPLE: “I hope in the future, the press will think twice about printing inaccuracies and painting an unpleasant picture when I have so much to be thankful for at this time.”