The Monkees Member Peter Tork Passes Away At 77

The Monkees member Peter Tork is confirmed to have passed away on Friday morning at the age of 77. 

In a statement posted to the legendary keyboardist and bassist's Facebook page, Tork's family announced he "died peacefully this morning at a family home in Connecticut".

"Peter succumbed to a 10 year bout with adenoid cystic carcinoma, a rare cancer of the salivary glands. Peter’s energy, intelligence, silliness, and curiosity were traits that for decades brought laughter and enjoyment to millions, including those of us closest to him.

"Those traits also equipped him well to take on cancer, a condition he met with unwavering humor and courage."

Tork was also honoured in a statement posted on The Monkees' official Facebook page which reads, "His talent, charm and humour were undeniable and he had the rare honour of bringing joy and music to multiple generations".

After forming in 1966 in a US TV series, the band went on to produce a number of global hits, including Daydream Believer, Last Train To Clarksville and I'm A Believer.

Folllowing their split in 1971, Tork released his first solo album, Stranger Things Have Happened, in 1994. 

The Monkees would eventually reunite for a string of shows and tours, with Tork also featuring in the line-up that toured Australia in 2016 for the band's farewell tour. 

Fellow The Monkees' members Mike Nesmith and Micky Dolenz will return to Australia this June to perform of all the iconic group's hits. 

Of Tork's passing, Dolenz tweeted today, "There are no words right now... heart broken over the loss of my Monkee brother, Peter Tork".

There are no words right now...heart broken over the loss of my Monkee brother, Peter Tork. #petertork #themonkees @TorkTweet pic.twitter.com/C8SwoA8pEV

— Micky Dolenz (@TheMickyDolenz1) February 21, 2019