'Varsity Blues' actor Ron Lester dead at 45

DALLAS, June 18 (UPI) -- Varsity Blues and Good Burger actor Ron Lester has died in Dallas. He was 45.

Variety said the Georgia native was hospitalized for about four months and had been battling liver and kidney problems.

The Hollywood Reporter quoted Lester's agent Dave Bradley as saying in a Facebook post, "He was not in any pain and passed away peacefully."

An earlier message from Bradley read: "He is breathing on his own, but has been given medicine that takes care of any pain he may be feeling. Ron's Fiancee is by his side as well as close family and friends. I will do my best to answer your questions and to return your phone calls. Thank you for your continued support. I will post an update as soon as there is any status changes."

Lester's other screen credits include Not Another Teen Movie, Popular, Freaks and Geeks, CSI: NY and Sabrina the Teenage Witch.

The actor reportedly saw his career stall about a decade ago after he lost nearly 300 pounds following gastric bypass surgery.