Michael Wayne, the eldest son of legendary actor JOHN, has died - he was 68.

The family spokesperson confirmed he died on Wednesday (02APR03) after suffering heart failure at ST JOSEPH MEDICAL CENTER in Los Angeles.

Michael worked with his father on the films THE GREEN BERETS and THE TRAIN ROBBERS, which he produced. He also was the primary controller of his father's estate following his death from lung cancer in 1979.

He said of his father, "Whether on-screen or off, he was a man who lived by a code. I think people respected him because he was honest and stood for something.

"He believed in America and he was outspoken about it, even when it was unpopular."