Dennis Hopper is also an accomplished writer, director and artist

Actor Dennis Hopper has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and is cancelling all forthcoming appearances to focus on treatment, his manager has said.

Sam Maydew revealed the star is undergoing a "special programme" of treatment in California, adding, "we're hoping for the best."

Earlier on this month the 73-year-old was admitted to hospital in New York.

It was disclosed the Easy Rider star was treated for severe flu-like symptoms and dehydration.

Hopper had been expected to appear at an exhibition in Australia, entitled Dennis Hopper And The New Hollywood, which was a collection of his artwork and photography.

Tony Sweeney, a spokesman for the Australian Centre for the Moving Image, said: "Obviously his health is the number one priority and we wish him a very speedy recovery."

The Oscar-nominated actor, who is also an accomplished writer, director and artist, is also known for films including Blue Velvet and Apocalypse Now.

He is currently appearing in a TV adaptation of the 2004 Oscar-winning film Crash.