Popular Egyptian film and television actor Nour el Sherif died on Tuesday at the age of 69 following an 'undisclosed' illness, state news agency - MENA reported.

El-Sherif was born on 28 April 1946. In his four decade-long career, El-Sherif starred in over 170 films in Egypt. He is said to have enjoyed the same stature among the Egyptian audiences as that of legendary actor Omar Sharif. Some of his most prominent films include The Yacoubian Building (2006), Destiny (1997) and Hadduta misrija (1982).

AlBawaba reported that the veteran actor was suffering from a series of health problems, for which he often travelled overseas from Egypt seeking medical treatment. Earlier reports said that El-Sherif, who was one of the most recognisable faces on Arab film and television industry, was suffering from lung cancer.

He is survived by his wife Poussi, also a former film actress and two daughters - Sarah and Mai.

The funeral will held at El Shorta Mosque in Cairo.

Egyptians Pay Tribute to Nour el-Sherif on Twitter:

Joy ♥ ‏@Fifitcha15 

Nour El-Sherif passed away... That man was basically my childhood, I love him. Life's so unfair.

MAFF ‏@Arabcinema 

A great Egyptian actor has left us today, to rest in peace. http://fb.me/49e0lmHV3

Sally Sampson ‏@salsampson

RIP Nour El Sherif. Another iconic actor laid to rest.

Nancy ‏@NanciEmad 

Nour El Sherif has passed away,we lost a great talent and a great man. May his pure soul rest in peace.

Dina Arakji ‏@Silverglaze 

Such sad news, RIP Nour El Sherif #نور_الشريف

rebellious ‏@meshohassan7

after one year from robin Robin Williams death , here's one of the greatest Egyptian actors of all time Nour el sherif died at the same day

Salma Elmo ‏@WhatElmoSays

Another legend quit us today. May you rest in peace Nour El-Sherif. I have tears in my eyes. Can't believe that... http://fb.me/2hJns8zGd