'Beast' producers want Swayze back

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 19 (UPI) -- The producers of Patrick Swayze's new U.S. television drama "The Beast" say they hope the actor will be healthy enough to return for a second season.

Swayze shot the first season of the show while being treated for pancreatic cancer. Shortly before the series was to premiere, the actor was hospitalized for pneumonia for a week. He reportedly left the hospital last Friday and is now home taking it easy for a while.

"He's doing good," producer Bill Rotko told the celebrity gossip Web site These Boots Are Made for Stalking last week. "He's a tough (expletive). We're hoping he'll be back for a second season!"

Producer Vincent Angell added: "He's great. He sounds great. He is proud of what he's done."