WATCH: When Tom Alter did 15-year-old Sachin Tendulkar's first ever TV interview

Veteran theatre, television and film actor Tom Alter, best known for his performances in "Shatranj Ke Khilari", "Junoon" and "Kranti", passed away aged 67. The renowned actor and Padma Shri awardee, who had been battling stage four skin cancer, died last night at his residence in Mumbai.

A cricket enthusiast, Alter was also a sports journalist and was the first person to interview Sachin Tendulkar for TV, before the legendary batsman's debut as a cricketer for India.

Watch the famous interview here:

The actor was diagnosed with skin cancer last year and was treated for the same but earlier this month he suffered a relapse and was admitted in Saifee hospital.

"It is with sadness we announce the death of Tom Alter, actor, writer, director, Padma Shri, and our dear husband and father. Tom passed away Friday night at home with his family and close family members in attendance. We ask for their privacy to be respected at this time," statement released on behalf of his family read.

Alter's last rites will be performed on Wednesday as per Christian practices.

(Inputs from PTI)