In a sombre turn of events, the Pakistani entertainment industry mourns the loss of a true icon as veteran actor Khalid Butt took his last breath on Thursday, 11th January 2024. The actor, revered for his timeless contributions, succumbed to complications arising from kidney and liver diseases.
Born in Multan, Khalid Butt’s artistic journey began in the 1970s, when he initially stepped into the world of entertainment as an assistant director — later transitioned to the role of a distinguished actor in 1978. Over the years, he graced the screens with his presence in numerous Urdu and Punjabi films, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. His versatility extended beyond acting, as he also ventured into film direction, showcasing his multifaceted talent.
The actor’s stellar contributions earned him the prestigious Pride of Performance award, a testament to his enduring impact on Pakistani cinema and television.
Khalid Butt’s legacy is imprinted in the hearts of his audience through memorable performances in iconic PTV productions. Notable dramas such as ‘Jangal Pura’ (1997), ‘Boota to Toba Tek Singh‘ (1999), and ‘Landa Bazaar’ (2002) showcased his acting prowess, garnering widespread appreciation from the public. Recent television dramas like ‘Jeevan Nagar’ and ‘Khaie‘ marked his triumphant return to the small screen.
Remarkably, his final project, the ongoing drama serial ‘Khaie,’ featuring Faysal Quraishi and Durefishan Saleem, stands as a poignant reminder of his talent. Co-stars and friends, including Noor Ul Hassan, Faysal Qureshi, Uzma Hassan and Laila Wasti shared their grief on social media, expressing the profound impact Khalid Butt had on their lives.
In an Instagram post, Durefishan shared heartfelt sentiments, painting a vivid picture of Butt’s dedication to his craft even in the face of health challenges. His words echo the sentiments of all who had the privilege of working alongside this seasoned actor.
The director of the show ‘Khaie’, Syed Wajahat Hussain and production house 7th Sky Entertainment also posted about it on social media.
The news of Khalid Butt’s demise spread through the heartfelt announcement made by veteran PTV actor Mohsin Gillani on Instagram. The post, accompanied by Butt’s picture, carried a poignant caption that reverberated with the collective sadness felt by the industry: “Khalid Butt Passed Away/ خالد بٹ انتقال کر گئے.”
As we bid farewell to Khalid Butt, the void left by his departure serves as a stark reminder of the profound impact he made on Pakistani entertainment — a legacy that will endure through the characters he brought to life and the indelible mark he left on the hearts of his admirers.
