Court suspends 5yr prison sentence for Bollywood star, Salman Khan pending appeal

Mumbai's High Court has suspended Bollywood superstar Salman Khan's prison sentence while he appeals his conviction in a fatal hit-and-run case.

Khan, one of India's most bankable stars, was sentenced Wednesday to five years in prison for running over several men sleeping on a Mumbai pavement, and killing one of them.

He was free on two days' bail, and many had expected him to be taken into custody Friday.

However, the High Court will allow him to remain free until his appeal hearing in July, said prosecutor Pradeep Gharat.

Khan will not be allowed to leave the country during the time without permission.

Crowds outside the court erupted in cheers as the news spread.

If his sentence is upheld, Khan's absence could cost the Indian film industry more than $31 million, trade analysts say.

The 49-year-old Khan's stature in Bollywood can't be overstated. He is Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and George Clooney rolled into one -- oozing sex appeal and machismo in the more than 80 movies he's starred in.

In its list of the best looking man in the world, People Magazine once placed him at no. 7. He has a rabid fan base (with 11 million Twitter followers), and has enjoyed an unheard-of two-decade reign at the top.