Popular film and theatre actor Tom Alter succumbed to skin cancer at his residence on Friday. He was 67. He was battling stage four skin cancer at a Mumbai hospital where he was admitted in early September. He was taken back to home on Thursday and on Friday night he breathed his last, according to actor’s manager Ismail Ansari.
A statement was released on behalf of his family. It said, “It is with sadness we announce the death of Tom Alter, actor, writer, director, Padma Shri, and our dear husband and father.”
"Tom passed away on Friday night at home with his family and close family members in attendance. We ask for their privacy to be respected at this time."
Earlier, Tom Alter's son Jamie had told IANS that the actor was suffering squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Last year, Tom Alter had got his thumb amputated due to the condition. According to Jamie, Tom Alter was fighting cancer well and was showing the will to battle it out.
Known for starring in television shows like "Bharat Ek Khoj", "Junoon", "Zabaan Sambhalke" and "Betaal Pachisi", Tom Alter was an American-origin actor settled in India. He had a flourishing career on stage, and on the big screen, he has played pivotal roles in successful films like "Gandhi", "Shatranj Ke Khilari", "Kranti", "Aashiqui" and "Parinda".In 2008, he was recognised with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honour of India.
Popular names in the industry, as well as the Prime Minister of India, condoled his death.
PMO Official wrote: PM expressed grief on the demise of Shri Tom Alter and recalled his contribution to the film world and theatre. He extended condolences to the family & admirers of Shri Tom Alter.
Filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt tweeted: "Goodbye to you my trusted friend!"
Singer Mohit Chauhan wrote: "Saddened by the passing away of Tom Alter saab. A glorious chapter has come to an end. His death marks the end of an era of grace and dignity. RIP."
Actor Riteish Deshmukh, who says he had the privilege of working with Tom Alter in "Bangistan", said he "will always remember him for his humility and kindness".
Actor Arjun Kapoor also recounted having the "fondest childhood memories of seeing him on 'Zabaan Sambhalke".
Actress Nimrat Kaur described him as a "one of a kind, grace personified, thorough gentleman".
Tom Alter last featured in a TV show ‘Rishton Ka Chakravyuh’. On the big screen, he was seen in ‘Sargoshiyan’. He also featured in a short film ‘The Black Cat’, in which played the role of author Ruskin Bond.
(With IANS Inputs)
