A representative for Nelson Mandela has blasted internet reports suggesting the political icon died on Saturday (15Jan11), insisting he is alive and well.
Rumours that the former South African president had passed away hit the web, but a spokesperson for the Nelson Mandela Foundation has moved swiftly to deny the speculation.
A statement from the organisation reads, "Nelson Mandela is well and on holiday. (These are) unsubstantiated reports about Nelson Mandela's health."
Mandela is the latest star caught up in a death hoax - Aretha Franklin, Charlie Sheen, Adam Sandler, Owen Wilson and singer Justin Bieber have also been targeted by web rumours about their passing recently.