Just as 2016 saw the departure of many global icons of the entertainment industry, 2017 has started with more sadness for television and film fans. On Thursday, Syrian film, TV and theatre pioneer Rafiq Sebaie died a natural death at 86. The next day, Indian character actor Om Puri passed away in Mumbai after suffering a heart attack at just 66.
Both of these celebrities were loved by their fans, and known beyond their homelands. In the Arab world, Sebaie and his most popular character Abu Sayyah dominated screens during the golden age of Syrian cinema in the 1960s and 1970s. Meanwhile, Puri’s many roles won him fans in India and beyond. In addition to Bollywood, Hollywood and British movies, he was also one of the few Indian actors to star in Pakistani films.
Death is a reality none of us can escape, and we don’t know what other celebrities will pass away this year. However, their legacy and their works will live on.