Dennis Hopper has been diagnosed with prostate cancer - just weeks after he was hospitalised for "severe flu-like symptoms".

The Easy Rider star was admitted to a medical facility in New York at the end of September after complaining of stomach cramps while on promotional duties for his latest TV show, Crash.

Hopper's spokesperson brushed off reports the actor was seriously ill, insisting the star was back on his feet and "feeling much better" the day after he was hospitalised.

However, Hopper's manager Sam Maydew has confirmed his client is battling prostate cancer, and has cancelled all upcoming travel commitments in order to fully fight the disease.

Source: Press Release