AceShowbiz -

John Hurt has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The "Hellboy" actor revealed the news on his website on Tuesday, June 16, writing, "I have always been open about the way in which I conduct my life and in that spirit I would like to make a statement. I have recently been diagnosed with early stage pancreatic cancer."

But the "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part I" actor remains positive and will continue his professional work. "I am undergoing treatment and am more than optimistic about a satisfactory outcome, as indeed is the medical team," he added, "I am continuing to focus on my professional commitments and will shortly be recording 'Jeffrey Bernard is Unwell' (one of life's small ironies!) for Radio 4."

John was knighted earlier this year for his contribution to drama. He was nominated for Oscars for his work in 1978's "Midnight Express" and 1980's "The Elephant Man", but he perhaps is best known for his role in movies like "Alien", "V for Vendetta", "Harry Potter", "Hellboy","Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" and "Hercules".

His small screen credits included a voice role on "Merlin" and a special appearance in the 50th episode of "Doctor Who".

He will next be seen in upcoming movie "Tarzan" along with Alexander Skarsgard, Margot Robbie, Samuel L. Jackson, Christoph Waltz and Djimon Hounsou. Directed by David Yates, the action-adventure flick is scheduled to be released in the U.S. on July 1, 2016.