MUMBAI – The 67-year-old actor had been bravely fighting stage four cancer, succumbing to the illness in the early hours.

Confirming the heartbreaking news, a family friend shared, “He passed away last night at 2 am in Mumbai. He had stomach cancer and had been unwell for the past few days. His final rites are scheduled at the Santacruz burial ground following today’s afternoon prayers.”

Junior Mehmood, known for his prolific career spanning over 200 films across various languages, including ‘Brahmachari,’ ‘Mera Naam Joker,’ ‘Parvarish,’ and ‘Do Aur Do Paanch,’ battled with a deteriorating health condition encompassing cancerous growths in the liver, lungs, and intestinal tumour, coupled with jaundice. Despite ongoing medical treatment, the veteran actor succumbed to the advanced stage of the disease.

His illness had garnered support and prayers from fellow actors, with Sachin Pilgaonkar and Johnny Lever seeking blessings and urging fans to pray for Junior Mehmood’s health. Actor Naeem Sayyed, fondly known as Junior Mehmood, leaves an indelible legacy in the Indian film industry and is remembered for his remarkable contributions to cinema.