Tom Alter, the first person to interview Sachin Tendulkar, dies

Mumbai: Veteran theatre and film personality and Padma Shri awardee Tom Alter, who was battling stage four skin cancer, died on Friday.

Alter, 67, was admitted to Mumbai’s Saifee Hospital two weeks ago.

Known for starring in television shows like "Bharat Ek Khoj", "Zabaan Sambhalke" and "Betaal Pachisi", Tom Alter was an American-origin actor settled in India.

ALSO READ:

60 presumed dead in Rohingya boat capsize: UN

Anushka comes out in support of PM Modi’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

He had a flourishing career on stage, and on the big screen he played pivotal roles in successful films like "Gandhi", "Shatranj Ke Khilari", "Kranti", "Aashiqui" and "Parinda".

In the 80s and 90s, Alter also tried his hand in direction and sports journalist. He was the first person to interview cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar for TV when the cricketer was yet to debut for India.

In 2008, he was recognised with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honour of India.