Music Legend David Bowie Dead at 69 After '18 Month Battle with Cancer'

Music legend David Bowie had died at the age of 69, it has been confirmed.

The news was released late Sunday on his Official Facebook page.

A statement to fans read: "David Bowie died peacefully today surrounded by his family after a courageous 18 month battle with cancer. While many of you will share in this loss, we ask that you respect the family’s privacy during their time of grief."

Bowie's son Duncan took to Twitter to confirm the news himself shortly afterwards, writing: "Very sorry and sad to say it's true. I'll be offline for a while. Love to all."

George Stark and Aaron Couch write for [www.people.com|People.com]