Veteran actor Patrick Swayze appeared happy and healthy on Monday as he received birthday gifts and wishes from fans and colleagues, reports suggest.

The star of iconic movies such as Dirty Dancing and Ghost celebrated his 56th birthday on the Chicago set of his current crime series The Beast.

After an intimate birthday lunch in his decorated trailer with wife of 33 years Lisa Niemi, Swayze was surprised with a selection of party ideas by the crew that included a birthday cake and t-shirts with his image on the front, saying "Crazy for Swayze".

The actor was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January this year and has been undergoing chemotherapy treatment in a bid to fight the disease.

Commenting on the improvement in his health, Patrick told reporters and fans: "I'm a miracle, dude ... I don't know why."

Swayze has been married to long-term love Lisa since 1975.