'Dennis the Menace' star Jay North passes away at 73

Jay North, who is best known for playing the role of Dennis Mitchell in the CBS sitcom "Dennis the Menace" in the '60s, has passed away. He was 73 years old.

His death was confirmed by his representative and friend, Bonnie Vent, in an email to NBC News.

His longtime friend and actor, Laurie Jacobson, also announced his passing via Facebook on Monday (Philippine time).

According to Jacobson, North died peacefully at home after a battle with cancer.

"As many of his fans know, he had a difficult journey in Hollywood and after... but he did not let it define his life. He had a heart as big as a mountain, loved his friends deeply.  He called us frequently and ended every conversation with 'I love you with all my heart.' And we loved him with all of ours," wrote Jacobson.

"He is out of pain now. His suffering is over.  At last he is at peace," Jacobson added.

North is survived by his wife, Cindy, and his three stepdaughters, according to NBC News. 

He was six years old when he began playing the title character in "Dennis the Menace" in 1959. Clad in a striped shirt and overalls, Dennis is known as a well-intentioned boy who often winds up in trouble. Based on the Hank Ketcham comic strip, the show ended its run in 1963.

North's acting credits on IMDb also include the TV series "Maya," "Arabian Knights," "Here Comes the Grump," The Banana Splits Adventure Hour," "The Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm Show," and more.

—CDC, GMA Integrated News