Showbiz loses two stalwarts in a single day

Comedian Lucky Dear and actor-director Shehzad Billa remembered for decades of work

KARACHI:

Pakistan's entertainment industry mourned the loss of two veteran artists on Tuesday, with the passing of renowned comedian Lucky Dear and prominent actor-director Shehzad Billa after prolonged illnesses.

Lucky Dear, celebrated for his performances across theatre, television, and film, died at the age of 60. He had been suffering from lung disease and diabetes for the past eight months and was under treatment at Lahore's Mayo Hospital.

Family members confirmed that his condition had turned critical in his final days, as he slipped into a coma, while his kidneys, liver, and stomach ceased functioning. His grandson announced that the funeral prayer will be offered after Asr in Baghbanpura.

For more than four decades, Lucky Dear was a household name in show business, bringing joy to audiences through hundreds of dramas and films with his distinctive comic style.

Meanwhile, Lollywood lost one of its most recognisable villains with the death of Shehzad Billa. The senior actor and director had been battling multiple health complications for several years.

Two months ago, one of his legs had to be amputated due to complications arising from diabetes. His condition worsened further following a lung infection and kidney failure, ultimately leading to his demise. Details of his funeral will be announced later, family sources said.

Shehzad Billa was known for his commanding presence on screen and earned a reputation for playing villainous roles with intensity. His career spanned several decades in which he performed significant roles in both films and dramas.

Colleagues and fellow showbiz personalities have expressed grief at the passing of the two artists, remembering them as influential figures who contributed immensely to Pakistan's entertainment landscape.