Irrfan Khan dies at 53

Irrfan Khan, recognized for his many contributions to cinema and entertainment around the world is being remembered today as news of his passing hits headlines.  As a crossover actor, internationally, Khan made his mark in “The Namesake,” “Life Of Pi” and “Slumdog Millionaire.” 

The statement from Khan’s PR agency, Hardly Anonymous Communications states, “It’s saddening that this day, we have to bring forward the news of him passing away…Irrfan was a strong soul, someone who fought till the very end and always inspired everyone who came close to him.”

Irrfan Khan
PARK CITY, UT – JANUARY 22: Irrfan Khan from ‘Puzzle’ attends The Hollywood Reporter 2018 Sundance Studio (Photo by John Parra/Getty Images for for The Hollywood Reporter)

Earlier this week, Irrfan Khan was admitted to the ICU for a colon infection. Adding to this immediate health threat was Khan’s emotional distress as last week his mother passed and was unable to attend her funeral due to coronavirus lockdown. Additionally, Irrfan has been battling a rare neuroendocrine tumor since 2018. 

Irrfan Khan was always drawn to the art of performing. He attended the National School of Drama in New Delhi which then launched his acting. Not your traditional Bollywood pretty boy, is was Khan’s intense performances which set him apart in the pack.

His role in “The Lunchbox” brought him national success and began establishing his name in the international fraternity. Then as the police inspector in “Slumdog Millionaire,” he made his mark. Then it was a slew on global releases including “Life of Pi” supporting roles in major films like “The Amazing Spider-Man,” “Jurassic World” and “Inferno” that continued to build his legacy.

Along with his masterful and serious roles, Irrfan also had a quiet knack for comedy. In a collaboration with AIB, Irrfan poked fun out the pop music scene in India with their predictable videos and repetitive hooks. It was epic!

We get to savor the memories on Irrfan Khan through his body of work, but at his young age of 53, he is truly a star gone too soon. 

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