Tamil cinema is mourning the loss of Robo Shankar, a much-loved actor and comedian whose quick wit and generous spirit made him a favourite with audiences.
He was just 46. Colleagues and fans have been sharing their memories and favourite clips, remembering a performer who could light up a set and a living room with the same ease.
Shankar reportedly collapsed while shooting for a film in Chennai and was rushed to a private hospital. He was transferred to the intensive care unit after medical professionals observed significant variations in his blood pressure, according to India Today. Despite close monitoring, his condition worsened and he passed away a few hours later — a shock that has left the industry and his admirers reeling.
Away from the spotlight, he had navigated a difficult period that many didn’t know about at the time. As per Times of India, after a run of high-visibility work on television and in films, he suddenly stepped back, prompting speculation.
In a candid interview with Galata, he explained that alcohol addiction had taken a severe toll on his health and forced him to retreat. He encouraged others not to take the same route and was candid about how dangerous it got.
Also Read: Who was Robo Shankar? The actor- comedian who died at 46
As per Times of India he said that veteran journalist Nakkeeran Gopal provided a lifeline during that struggle, and his prompt action helped to turn things around. Shankar and his family continued to express their sincere gratitude, frequently recognising the importance of that support during difficult times.
After he recovered from the precipice, he spoke about slowing down, spending more time with his loved ones, and savouring the little, everyday moments he nearly missed.
Dhanush also stepped in during a particularly tough phase, offering immediate help when Shankar and his family were facing financial strain. As Shankar recalled, “In just 10 minutes, Dhanush provided me with more help than I could have hoped for,” a gesture that fans later praised as both generous and quietly transformative.
Robo Shankar’s legacy lives in the laughter he brought and the warmth he carried into every role. For many, he won’t only be remembered for the characters he played, but for the humanity he showed — on screen, with his audiences, and in the way he spoke about his struggles and the people who helped him through them.
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