Speculation about movie veteran Paul Newman's health has reached a new high following a the publication of a photograph of the gaunt star and fresh reports he's battling lung cancer.

Tabloid reports earlier this year (08) suggested the beloved star and humanitarian had just six months to live and was under hospital supervision, but the actor laughed off the rumours, insisting his medical crisis was nothing more than treatment of athlete's foot "and hair loss".

But now a new Los Angeles Times article reports the 83-year-old has been diagnosed with "terminal lung cancer" at New York's Sloan-Kettering Center, where Newman is currently receiving outpatient treatment.

The latest report comes just days after lifestyle queen Martha Stewart posted a recent photograph of herself and Newman on her website. In the shot, the actor appears frail and pale.

Last month (May08), the actor pulled out of plans to direct the stage production for Of Mice and Men at the Westport Country Playhouse in Connecticut. He has refused to comment on the latest reports about his failing health. (KL/LAT/MJ)

Copyright 2008 WENN