Veteran actor Tom Alter dies of cancer at 67

Tom Alter was battling stage four skin cancer at a Mumbai hospital

Veteran theatre and film personality Tom Alter lost his battle against skin cancer at his residence here, his family said on Saturday. He was 67.
Tom Alter was battling stage four skin cancer at a Mumbai hospital, where he was admitted earlier in September.
He returned home on Thursday and breathed his last on Friday night, the acclaimed actor's manager Ismail Ansari told IANS.
A statement released on behalf of his family, 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.

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.
- PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 30, 2017

He last featured in a television show "Rishton Ka Chakravyuh", and on the big screen, he was seen in "Sargoshiyan". He also shot for a short film "The Black Cat", in which he features as author Ruskin Bond.

• India