Pakistan’s ‘King of Comedy’ Umer Sharif Dies at 66 | Arts and culture news



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Sharif, who was battling heart disease, has died in Germany, officials confirm.

Legendary Pakistani comedian Umer Sharif has died in Germany at the age of 66.

His death on Saturday was confirmed by his family and Pakistani officials.

Sharif, who was battling heart disease, was flown from Pakistan in an air ambulance on September 28 for surgery in the United States scheduled for next week.

However, he was admitted to a hospital in Germany during a layover as his condition deteriorated.

“With deep sadness, it is announced that Mr. Umer Sharif has passed away,” Mohammad Faisal, Pakistani Ambassador to Germany, wrote on Twitter. «Our most sincere condolences to you [sic] family and friends. Our CG [consul general] is present at the hospital to help the family in any way.

The news of his death sparked a wave of grief and a multitude of tributes.

Prime Minister Imran Khan and opposition leaders Shehbaz Sharif and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari were among a number of politicians and dignitaries who have joined the entertainment and media industry in mourning the death of the artist.

“He possessed many talents and held a distinct position in the field of acting and comedy,” Khan said in a statement, adding that Sharif’s contribution to the world of the arts will be remembered for years to come. to come.

Born in 1955 in the southern port city of Karachi, Sharif started as a comedian in stage dramas in 1974.

An illustrious career spanning nearly five decades has seen him be widely hailed as Pakistan’s “King of Comedy”.

He has also been involved in television and films, producing several big hits.

The stage, however, remained his highlight as he – along with late comedy icon Moin Akhtar, who passed away in 2011 – pioneered stage drama in Pakistan.

Sharif has performed in dozens of countries around the world during his career.

His talent has transcended the boundaries of politics, as evidenced by the love and adoration he received in neighboring rival India, where many artists over the years regard Sharif as a mentor.



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