Oscar-winner Jeff Bridges has revealed he has been diagnosed with lymphoma.

In a tweet referencing one of his most famous characters, he wrote: "As the Dude would say.. New S**T has come to light. I have been diagnosed with Lymphoma. Although it is a serious disease, I feel fortunate that I have a great team of doctors and the prognosis is good.

"I'm starting treatment and will keep you posted on my recovery."

As the Dude would say.. New S**T has come to light.

I have been diagnosed with Lymphoma. Although it is a serious disease, I feel fortunate that I have a great team of doctors and the prognosis is good.

I’m starting treatment and will keep you posted on my recovery.

— Jeff Bridges (@TheJeffBridges) October 20, 2020

Lymphoma is cancer that begins in infection-fighting cells of the immune system, called lymphocytes. These cells are in the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and other parts of the body.

Widely regarded as one of the most underrated actors of his generation, 70-year-old Bridges won an Oscar for his portrayal of an alcoholic country singer in the 2009 film Crazy Heart.

He has been nominated for an Academy Award on six other occasions but is probably best known as middle-aged Jeffrey 'The Dude' Lebowski in the 1998 cult classic The Big Lebowski.

Bridges was born into a true Hollywood dynasty in 1949, the son of actors Lloyd and Dorothy Bridges and brother to fellow film star Beau.

Both fans and colleagues were quick to react to the news of his illness.

Actress Patricia Arquette said: "Sending you and your family love and healing."

Comedian Kathy Griffin tweeted: "Jeff, sending you the wish, the hope, that you get everything you need and anything you want."

Replying to his well-wishers Bridges also urged Americans to vote in the upcoming presidential election.

I’m profoundly grateful for the love and support from my family and friends.

Thank you for your prayers and well wishes. And, while I have you, please remember to go vote. Because we are all in this together. https://t.co/6sAU4MYixl

Love, Jeff

— Jeff Bridges (@TheJeffBridges) October 20, 2020

"I'm profoundly grateful for the love and support from my family and friends," he tweeted.

"Thank you for your prayers and well wishes. And, while I have you, please remember to go vote. Because we are all in this together."