NEW DELHI: In a heartbreaking turn of events, actor Dinesh Phadnis, famed for his portrayal of Fredericks in the iconic TV show ‘CID’, breathed his last at the age of 57, on Monday. The actor, who had been wrestling with health issues, succumbed around midnight at Tunga Hospital in Mumbai.
Phadnis had been in critical condition, relying on ventilator support while battling severe liver damage. The news of his demise has left fans and the entertainment industry in mourning. The actor’s last rites are scheduled for today, and the entire star cast of ‘CID’ has gathered at his residence to pay their respects.
Known affectionately as Fredericks, Dinesh Phadnis was an integral part of ‘CID’ from 1998 to 2018. His portrayal of the lighthearted detective resonated with audiences, especially children, making him a household name. Besides ‘CID’, he made cameo appearances in the popular sitcom ‘Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ and featured in a few films.
CID’, which aired on Sony TV, boasted a robust cast, including Shivraj Satam (ACP Pradyuman), Dayanand Shetty (Daya), Aditya Srivastava (Abhijeet), Janvi Chheda Gopalia (Shreya), Hrishikesh Pandey (Sachin), Shraddha Musale (Dr. Tarika), Narendra Gupta (Dr. Salunkhe) and others, capturing audiences with its gripping crime investigations.
Co-star Dayanand Shetty confirmed Phadnis’s demise, highlighting his critical condition due to liver damage. Reports earlier mistakenly cited a heart attack, but Shetty clarified that it was a result of adverse effects from medications for another ailment.The close-knit ‘CID’ team often had mini-reunions, reflecting their deep bond even after the show’s conclusion. Phadnis, known for his cop roles in various projects, made a significant contribution to Indian television. Apart from acting, he also penned episodes for ‘CID’.Dinesh Phadnis’s funeral is set for December 5, attended by the entire ‘CID’ cast and crew. His legacy as Fredericks will endure in the hearts of fans, and the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented actor and a beloved colleague.