Tamil cinema is mourning one of its most beloved entertainers. Actor–comedian Robo Shankar passed away in Chennai on Thursday, aged 46 — news that prompted an immediate outpouring of grief from colleagues, fans and leaders across Tamil Nadu.
Among the first to speak was actor–politician Thalapathy Vijay, who shared a heartfelt tribute and extended condolences to Shankar’s family.
GEM Hospital later issued a medical update that underlined how serious things had been from the outset. "Robo Shankar was admitted to GEM Hospital, Perungudi, Chennai, on 16th September 2025 in a critical condition with a massive gastrointestinal bleed and multiorgan dysfunction secondary to a complex abdominal condition. He was managed in the critical care unit with intensive medical management," the statement read.
Shankar took his last breath at the hospital on Thursday.
On Friday, Vijay’s note on X captured what many felt — admiration for the man who moved so effortlessly from television to cinema, and affection for the person behind the performances. "I am shocked and saddened to hear the news of the passing of my friend Robo Shankar. With his sense of humour, he carved a unique place for himself from the small screen to the silver screen. He was a gentleman who mingled with everyone with affection. I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends grieving the loss of my friend Robo Shankar. I pray to God that his soul may rest in peace."
Soon, tributes poured in from every corner of the industry. Kamal Haasan wrote an intensely personal farewell: "Robo Shankar Robo is just a pseudonym. In my dictionary, you are a human. Therefore, my younger brother. So, will you just leave me and go? You left, your job is done. My job remains unfinished. You leave tomorrow for us. Therefore, tomorrow is ours,"
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From the government, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin offered condolences that spoke to Shankar’s reach: "I was deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of actor Thiru Robo Shankar. Starting from stage performances, he expanded his journey into television and cinema, entertaining the people of Tamil Nadu. I extend my heartfelt condolences and sympathies to his bereaved family members and the film fraternity mourning his loss," he said.
Final rites are being held at his Chennai residence. For many, memories of Shankar will live on in his scene-stealing turn in Maari, and in the joy he brought through TV shows such as Kings of Comedy Juniors, Kanni Theevu, Sembaruthi and Top Cooku Dupe Cooku Season 2.
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