Support has poured in for actor Michael Douglas who has been diagnosed with throat cancer.

The Academy-award winning actor, who has lived on the Island since 2001, is undergoing eight weeks of radiation and chemotherapy.

Residents like Premier Ewart Brown have wished Mr. Douglas, 65, a full and speedy recovery and offered their words of encouragement.

The actor who has starred in movies like Wall Street and Fatal Attraction, raised his two children, Dylan, 10, and Carys, 7, with actress Catherine Zeta Jones in Bermuda.

Dr. Brown said yesterday: "Apart from being an accomplished actor, Michael has been a tremendous friend to Bermuda and to our family.

"We are thankful for all that he and his family have done for Bermuda. I have been in touch with him in recent days and he is confident of a positive outcome.

"Wanda and I, on behalf of the government and people of Bermuda, wish him a safe and speedy recovery."

Don Kramer, Chairman of the Board for National Dance Foundation of Bermuda, said Mr. Douglas' wife has supported the charity and its mission for the past six years.

Mr. Douglas accompanied her to every function the Foundation has sponsored and has been "no less passionate," Mr. Kramer said.

The couple have been instrumental in helping the Foundation forge alliances in the dance world, particularly with dance legend Debbie Allen.

Mr. Kramer said: "We know that Michael, like his father Kirk, is a lion and a warrior, and we know he will conquer this most recent challenge as he has conquered others he has faced — with grace, dignity and humour. And we know he will triumph, as he always does. Michael and Catherine and their family have our love and best wishes for Michael's speedy and full recovery," he added.

Mr. Douglas' first cousin Nick Dill, of Ariel Sands, said he was "sorry to hear" of the actor's illness, but hasn't spoken to him.

"I do not know how serious it is. It sounds like it is under control but you can never really tell with these things."

Film-maker Lucinda Spurling worked with the actor in the documentary 'The Lion and the Mouse", where Mr. Douglas served as narrator.

She said: "Michael is a professional, generous, gifted and determined man. I am sure all the qualities that make him a superior actor and producer will stand him well for his fight against cancer.

"I wish him and his family all the best, and I am sure he will be gracing our screens for many years to come, much like his amazing father."