Hugh Hefner speaks out after reports went viral that he's dead

Law enforcement rushed to the Playboy Mansion yesterday after rumours swirled that Hugh Hefner may have died.

According to TMZ, they and several news agencies got a tip the Playboy king had passed away.

We called law enforcement to confirm or shoot down the story ... and we were told they were unaware of a death at the Mansion.

We've learned earlier today, cops went to the bunny house and spoke with staff members who said Hef's health remained unchanged. A staff member told Hef the police had come to check on him and he then personally called cops to say he was okay.

Hef has been in frail health over the last few years ... and rarely comes out of his bedroom

After personally confirming with officers that he was still alive, Hugh took to his Twitter to quip back at reports.

“I wish the tabloids had informed me a little earlier in the week that I’m sick. I might have cancelled my weekend plans,” he joked.

Hugh also added a photo alongside his wife Crystal Hefner as the couple watched a movie together, writing, “Tonight’s Mansion movie is the classic western, ‘Shane.’”