French star Johnny Hallyday says he is treated for cancer

FILE - In this July 4, 2016 file picture, French rock singer Johnny Hallyday waits before Christian Dior's Haute Couture Fall-Winter 2016-2017 fashion collection presented in Paris, France. France's rock'n roll icon Johnny Hallyday says he is suffering from cancer but insists his condition is not life threatening, The 73-year-old singer, whose career spans over more than half a century, issued a statement late Wednesday after alarming rumors about his health emerged on social media. (AP Photo/Zacharie Scheurer, File) FILE - In this July 4, 2016 file picture, French rock singer Johnny Hallyday waits before Christian Dior's Haute Couture Fall-Winter 2016-2017 fashion collection presented in Paris, France. France's rock'n roll icon Johnny Hallyday says he is suffering from cancer but insists his condition is not life threatening, The 73-year-old singer, whose career spans over more than half a century, issued a statement late Wednesday after alarming rumors about his health emerged on social media. (AP Photo/Zacharie Scheurer, File)

By Associated Press March 9, 2017 2 min read

PARIS (AP) – France’s rock ‘n’ roll icon Johnny Hallyday has revealed he is suffering from cancer, but insists his condition is not life-threatening.

The 73-year-old singer, whose career spans more than half a century, issued a statement late Wednesday after alarming rumors about his health emerged on social media.

“I was actually diagnosed a few months ago with cancer cells for which I’m currently being treated,” said Hallyday, whose real name is Jean-Philippe Smet. “My life is not in danger today.”

Often described as the French Elvis, Hallyday suffered several health scares over the past 10 years but has continued to perform on stage.

Renowned for his deep and powerful voice, glittering outfits and spectacular live shows, Hallyday released his latest album “Rester Vivant” – which translates as “Staying Alive” -last year.