Veteran Pakistani actress Ayesha Khan, known for her roles in classic television dramas and a minor role in the Bollywood film Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman starring Shah Rukh Khan, was found dead in her Karachi apartment on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. She was 76 years old.

Reports indicate that Khan had passed away nearly a week before her body was discovered in a decomposed state at her residence in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 7, Karachi. Neighbors alerted authorities after noticing a foul odor emanating from the apartment. Police officials arrived at the scene and transferred her remains to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for a post-mortem examination to determine the cause and time of death. Following the medico-legal procedure, her body was moved to the Edhi Foundation mortuary in Sohrab Goth.

Ayesha Khan had reportedly been living alone for several years and had withdrawn from public life, battling health issues. Her isolation and the circumstances surrounding her death have raised concerns about the well-being of aging artists within the industry. An investigation has been launched, with police questioning neighbors and relatives to gather information about her final days.

Born in 1948, Ayesha Khan was the elder sister of the late celebrated TV actress Khalida Riyasat. She began her career at Radio Pakistan, and then transitioned into television in 1964, quickly becoming a household name due to her powerful performances in acclaimed dramas such as Akhri Chattan, Tipu Sultan: The Tiger Lord, Dehleez, Daraarein, Bol Meri Machli, Afshan, Aroosa, Shaam Se Pehle, Family 93, and Ek Aur Aasman. Her film credits include Muskaan, Fatima, Naqab Zan, Bharosa Pyar Tera, and the Bollywood film Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman.

The news of Ayesha Khan's death has been met with an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow actors. Actor Khaled Anam shared the news on Instagram, writing, "With profound sadness, we share the news of legendary Pakistani actress Ayesha Khan passing away this June 2025," triggering an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues alike. Arts Council of Pakistan President Ahmed Shah called Ayesha's passing "a profound loss" for the country's drama industry.

Adnan Siddiqui, who worked with Khan in Aroosa, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, recalling her maternal presence and calm dignity. "She was my on-screen mother but brought a compassion reminiscent of a maternal figure, a presence that soothed, grounded and made a space feel more human," Siddiqui wrote. "In an industry that can often be brisk, brusque and bustling, Ayesha jee carried herself with a calm dignity. She was never loud, never needing to prove anything — her craft did all the talking."