Actor-comedian Robo Shankar, known for his distinctive humour, electrifying stage presence, and an unmatched flair for mimicry, passed away on September 18th, 2025. The news has sent ripples of grief across the Tamil film and television industry, where he had carved a niche for himself as a truly irreplaceable talent.
Shankar was admitted to GEM Hospital in Chennai on September 16th, reportedly in a critical condition. According to the official medical bulletin released by the hospital, he was suffering from a massive gastrointestinal bleed, which escalated into multi organ dysfunction triggered by a complex abdominal condition. Despite intensive care and specialist intervention, he succumbed to his illness at 9:05PM on Thursday.
His death comes after a prolonged period of health complications. Earlier this year, Robo Shankar had been recovering from jaundice, a condition that led to noticeable weight loss. Fans had expressed concern, but true to his spirit, he bounced back to work, appearing in films and television shows even while his health remained fragile.
Robo Shankar made his big screen debut with the 2013 film Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara, and quickly became a sought-after comic presence in Tamil cinema. His breakthrough role came in Vaayai Moodi Pesavum, and from there, he delighted audiences in a string of hit films including Maari, Puli, Viswasam, Velaikkaran, Velainu Vandhutta Vellakkaran, Maari 2, Singam 3, Iravin Nizhal, and Singapore Saloon. His final screen appearance was in Sotta Sotta Nanaiyuthu which got released last week.
His performances were always marked by a kind of unfiltered joy, an infectious energy that resonated with fans across generations. Whether playing a loud-mouthed friend, an eccentric sidekick, or a heartfelt supporting role, Shankar had the rare ability to light up the screen with mere presence. Beyond cinema, he was widely admired for his work on television and live stages. His moniker, “Robo” Shankar, was earned through his early performances featuring robotic dance moves, which captivated audiences during stage shows and mimicry acts.
Robo Shankar was more than just a comedian – he was a beam of joy in Tamil entertainment. His loss leaves behind a silence that laughter will now struggle to fill.
May his soul attain eternal peace.