ISLAMABAD: Legendary Pakistani actor Talat Hussain passed away in Karachi on Sunday at the age of 83 after a prolonged illness, his daughter confirmed, as tributes from prominent journalists and actors poured in from all over the country.

The actor, whose career spanned several decades from the 1960s and saw him perform in critically acclaimed TV dramas, movies and stage plays over the years, passed away at a private hospital in Karachi. Hussain is survived by a wife, two daughters and a son.

He starred in prominent projects such as Chiragh Jalta Raha, Ishaara, Gumnaam, Qurbani, Jinnah— The Movie, Actor in Law, Chupan Chupai and Project Ghazi. ​

“It is with profound grief and a very heavy heart that we announce that our dearest Talat Hussain passed to his eternal abode this morning,” his daughter Tazeen Hussain wrote on Instagram.

“Details of funeral and otherwise to follow later.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed sorrow and regret over Hussain’s passing, a statement from his office said, offering condolences to his family. 

“Talat Hussain made a place for himself in the hearts of drama and film fans around the world,” Sharif was quoted as saying by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). 

“His services for Pakistan’s radio, television and films will always be remembered. The void his death has created will never be filled.”

Hussain studied at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. His stellar performances earned him prestigious awards throughout his career, including the Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence) award in 2021 and the Pride of Performance Award in 1982 by the Pakistani government.

He was also awarded the Amanda Award in 2006 for Best Supporting Actor in the Norwegian film “Import Eksport” and the Nigar Award in 1986 for Best Supporting Actor in the film “Miss Bangkok.”

“Talat Hussain was one of the very few actors in Pakistan whom every generation knows about,” prominent Pakistani actor Behroze Sabzwari told Geo News.

Sabzwari said Hussain was a very “unique” actor and had his own sense of style.

“I always received love and affection from him,” he said. “He was my friend and was a great man.”

Prominent actress Bushra Ansari, who featured in several dramas and projects with Hussain, said those who had learned from him were fortunate they had the opportunity to do so. 

“We don’t have teachers like him anymore,” Ansari told Geo News. “He was a master of his craft. I would urge everyone to pray to Allah for his forgiveness and that he may grant him peace.”