Peter Tork, the bassist for American rock group The Monkees, has died aged 77, a decade after being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer.
Tork, born Peter Thorkelson, played a number of instruments and also sang for The Monkees, who were marketed as the American answer to The Beatles.
In 2009, he was diagnosed with adenoid cystic carcinoma, a rare cancer of the salivary glands.
Tork's death was announced on his Facebook and Twitter pages, with his family releasing a statement saying he had died "peacefully" at his home in Connecticut.
"Peter's energy, intelligence, silliness, and curiosity were traits that for decades brought laughter and enjoyment to millions, including those of us closest to him," the family's statement read.
"Those traits also equipped him well to take on cancer, a condition he met with unwavering humour and courage."
Monkees bandmate Micky Dolenz wrote on Twitter that he was "heartbroken" by Tork's passing.
The family said they were grateful for the support of Tork's fans, which he dubbed Torkees.
"We want those fans to know with absolute certainty that your spirit and goodwill fed Peter with continued energy and force [and of course humour]," the statement read.
