Istanbul: Azerbaijan's People's Artist, actor Rasim Balayev, has passed away.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Ali Isa Jabbarov, secretary of the Azerbaijan Cinematographers Union, confirmed Balayev's death. He died at the Memorial clinic in Istanbul, where he was receiving treatment.

Rasim Balayev was born on August 8, 1948, in the Agsu district. He graduated from the Azerbaijan State Institute of Arts in 1969. Balayev first appeared in a small role in the play "Stars Do Not Go Out" at the Baku Film Studio. Over his career, he became well-loved for his performances in films such as "Nasimi," "Babek," and "Dede Gorgud." His contributions to the film industry extended beyond acting as he was involved with the "Azerbaijanfilm" film studio and worked at the theater studio.

In addition to major roles, Rasim Balayev also took on smaller roles, appearing in films such as "This Sweet Word, Freedom," "Your First Hour," "The Scene of Happiness," "I Will Still Come Back," and "Midnight of the First Day." He also acted in productions at "Uzbekfilm," "Mosfilm," and various other studios.

Balayev served as the secretary of the Azerbaijan Cinematographers Union from 1990 until January 18, 2013. On May 31, 2022, he was elected chairman of the Azerbaijan Cinematographers Union, marking another significant milestone in his career.