Publicist: Luke Perry has died at 52 after suffering stroke

Luke Perry, who gained instant heartthrob status as wealthy rebel Dylan McKay on "Beverly Hills, 90210," died today after suffering a massive stroke. He was 52.

His publicist Arnold Robinson says Perry was surrounded by family and friends when he died. The actor had been hospitalized since last Wednesday, after a 911 call summoned medical help to his home in the Sherman Oaks section of Los Angeles.

Robinson said in a statement "the family appreciates the outpouring of support and prayers that have been extended to Luke from around the world, and respectfully request privacy in this time of great mourning." At Perry's bedside were his children, Jake and Sophie; fiancée Wendy Bauer and his former wife, Minnie Sharp.

Perry had played construction construction-company owner Fred Andrews, father of main character Archie Andrews, for three seasons on "Riverdale," the CW series that gives a dark take on "Archie" comics. A fourth season has been slated.

Born and raised in rural Fredericktown, Ohio, Perry gained fame on "Beverly Hills, 90210," which ran from 1990 to 2000.