Pakistan comedy legend dies of heart attack

Pakistani comedy legend Moin Akhtar, who was famous across South Asia for his versatile acting, died on Friday from a heart attack at the age of 61.

He was skillful as a comedian, impersonator and host, and worked on hundreds of Pakistani TV dramas, films and stage shows.

In recognition of his services in the field of performing art, he was awarded the President's pride of performance and Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, one of Pakistan's highest national awards.

Fluent in several languages including English, Moin Akhtar performed dozens of stage shows for urdu-speaking communities all over the world.

Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani expressed deep grief at his passing.

Moin Akhtar passed away in a private hospital in Karachi following a long illness. He is survived by his wife, two sons and three daughters.