Michael Nader, who starred as Dex Dexter on Dynasty throughout the 1980s, has died just days after being diagnosed with untreatable cancer, his wife has said.
He was 76.
Nader was a mainstay on US soap operas in the 80s and 90s, having also held a decade-long presence on the set of daytime soap All My Children as leading man Dimitri Marick.
His character on that program was so popular that his axing in 1999 led to a fan revolt that demanded his return.
However, the return was short-lived and he was let go after being arrested for selling cocaine to an undercover police officer in 2001.
He began his career in Beach Party films in the 1960s, but gained prominence with the primetime program Dynasty, where he played Dex Dexter between 1983 and 1989.
Nader's wife, Jodi, released a statement overnight confirming his death, just days after a cancer diagnosis.
"He was diagnosed with untreatable cancer on Friday the 13th and died 10 days later with me and his best fur friend, Storm, by his side," she said.
"His death and diagnosis was sudden and unexpected and I have never experienced such agony as watching my soulmate die before my eyes.
Nader had spoken openly about his struggles with substance abuse, and Ms Nader said he was planning to write a book about his life at the time of his diagnosis.
"He had so many talents and skills and it's hard to imagine living life without his beautiful and wonderful presence, joy and laughter," she said.
