CELEBRATED theatre actor-director-writer Jit Murad, or Aziz Mirzan, has died. He was 62.

Fellow theatre activists confirmed the legendary thespian’s death.

He died in his home but as of now the cause of death has yet to be ascertained. 

His death has sent shockwaves to fans all over the country, with many describing the actor as a wonderful and honest character.

Jit began his career in the Malaysian performing arts scene in the 1980s.

He was the son of former education director-general and respected educationist Murad Mohamed Noor. His older brother is film director Na’a Murad.

In theatre he carved a name for his performances including Caught in the Middle (1986), Spilt Gravy on Rice (1995), The Storyteller (1996), Gold Rain and Hailstones (2002) and One Load of Bull (2009).

Apart from his work in theatre, Jit appeared in many films, with his debut being Mat Gelap in 1990.

Among his notable performances are Selubung (1992), Perempuan Melayu Terakhir (1999), Mimpi Moon (2000), Waris Jari Hantu (2007), Talentime (2009) and Spilt Gravy On Rice (2015).

He was a playwright and his works were compiled in Jit Murad Plays.

@blurredfrank said on Twitter that he was saddened by the news, adding that Jit was truly one of the funniest, most irreplaceable, outspoken, disruptive and sincerest of artists.  

@nattandscrewyou expressed her condolences by wishing the late actor a peaceful final journey.

“Sleep well, Jit Murad. Assamualaikum, selamat lah mengembara di tanah abadi.” 

@zainazraitweets, meanwhile, said “I met him as a child in Bangsar & he was so encouraging & cool. Virtually every trope in Malaysian English theatre today came directly from his original mind. RIP to Jit Murad, the greatest Malaysian English language playwright of all time.”

Fellow artist Francisca Peters tweeted “Rest in peace Jit. I still remember you fondly although we have not seen each other for a long time. My deepest condolences to you and your family #jitmurad. From us with love me, bibiana and John.”

Lembah Pantai MP Fahmi Fadzil, who is also known for his work in theatre, spoke highly of the late thespian. 

“So very sad to hear of Jit Murad’s passing. We worked together in A Man For All Seasons (Actor’s Studio, director Joe Hasham) in 2004. 

“His acerbic wit, incisive commentaries on social life, and bonhomie will forever be missed. Al-Fatihah,” said the PKR lawmaker.

Another twitter user @amerhadiazmi recalled working with Jit Murad at a comedy show back in 2008. 

“My one experience with the enigmatic Jit Murad was while working backstage for a comedy show in 2008. I annoyed him by repeatedly reminding him to standby for his set. Haha. Me, a kid, reminding a legend, in his own ‘house’. That’s one scolding I don’t mind. Rest in peace Jit.” – February 12, 2022.