S. Shankar’s son Arjith Shankar to make acting debut after working as assistant director

Arjith Shankar to make acting debut

Tamil cinema is gearing up to welcome a fresh face — and it’s one that carries a name already well known in the industry. Arjith Shankar, son of legendary director S. Shankar, is all set to make his big-screen debut as a lead actor.

But unlike many star kids who are launched under the spotlight of their parents, Arjith has taken a quieter, more grounded route into the film world — choosing to earn his stripes behind the scenes first.

Over the past few years, Arjith has been working away from the glare of the cameras as an assistant director, most notably under AR Murugadoss.

He was part of the team behind Madharaasi, the recent Sivakarthikeyan-starrer, where he learnt the craft of filmmaking from the ground up — from handling demanding sets to understanding how a story comes alive on screen. That hands-on experience seems to have laid a strong foundation for what comes next.

Now, his debut project is in the final stages of pre-production. Backed by Passion Studios and helmed by debutant director Ashok, the film is said to be a youthful entertainer filled with romance, action, and emotion — a perfect launchpad for a new actor trying to showcase his versatility.

Also Read: Teja Sajja starrer Mirai crosses Rs 100 Crore globally; surpasses Thandel and Thug Life

While the official announcement is expected soon, insiders say the team is planning to begin filming after the Dasara festival, with a late 2026 release on the cards.

Arjith isn’t the only member of the family making waves. His sister, Aditi Shankar, has already made a strong impression with roles in Tamil and Telugu films. Still, Arjith’s journey stands apart.

In an industry where famous surnames often open doors instantly, what’s striking is how S. Shankar hasn’t launched his son directly — instead allowing him to find his voice, his pace, and his team. It’s a decision that’s earned quiet respect in industry circles.