Popular Tamil actor and comedian Robo Shankar has passed away in Chennai, aged 46. The entertainer, beloved for his energetic performances in both cinema and television, died on Thursday evening after a brief illness.

Sources revealed that Shankar had collapsed earlier in the week and was taken to a private hospital along Old Mahabalipuram Road. Despite intensive treatment, his condition worsened. Doctors at GEM Hospital confirmed that he was admitted in a critical state with severe gastrointestinal bleeding and multiple organ complications. He succumbed around 8:30 p.m. on Thursday.

Shankar leaves behind his wife and daughter. His final rites are expected to take place at his Chennai residence on Friday, where family, colleagues from the film industry, and fans are likely to gather to pay their respects.

Tributes have since poured in across social media, with admirers remembering his trademark wit, larger-than-life screen presence, and contributions to Tamil entertainment.

Robo Shankar’s career began on the small screen, where his sharp comic timing quickly made him a household name. He successfully transitioned to films, often standing out in supporting roles alongside some of the industry’s biggest stars. He acted with Ajith in Viswasam, Vijay in Puli, Suriya in Si3, and Vikram in Cobra, among others.

His notable film credits include Idharkuthaane Aasaipattai Balakumara, Vaayai Moodi Pesavum, Maari, and Velainu Vandhutta Vellaikaaran. Known for blending humor with charisma, he built a loyal fanbase over the years and left a distinct mark on modern Tamil comedy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Who was Robo Shankar?
Robo Shankar was a popular Tamil actor and comedian known for his witty performances on television and memorable roles in films such as Viswasam, Puli, Si3, Maari, and Cobra.

Q2: How old was Robo Shankar when he died?
He was 46 years old at the time of his passing.

Q3: What was Robo Shankar’s cause of death?
According to doctors, he was admitted in a critical condition due to a massive gastrointestinal bleed and multiorgan dysfunction caused by a complex abdominal condition.

Q4: When and where did Robo Shankar die?
He died on Thursday evening, September 18, 2025, in Chennai at GEM Hospital.

Q5: Who are Robo Shankar’s family members?
He is survived by his wife and daughter.

Q6: When will Robo Shankar’s funeral take place?
His final rites are scheduled for Friday at his residence in Chennai, with family, friends, colleagues, and fans expected to attend.

Q7: Which movies and shows made Robo Shankar famous?
He first gained fame on television as a comedian and later starred in films including Idharkuthaane Aasaipattai Balakumara, Vaayai Moodi Pesavum, Maari, Velainu Vandhutta Vellaikaaran, Viswasam, and Cobra.

Q8: How are fans reacting to Robo Shankar’s death?
Fans have flooded social media with tributes, remembering his humor, charisma, and contributions to Tamil cinema and television.

Robo Shankar: The Comic Powerhouse Who Made Tamil Cinema Laugh and Think

The Tamil film industry is reeling from the sudden death of actor and comedian Robo Shankar, who passed away in Chennai at just 46. His untimely departure has left fans, colleagues, and loved ones in deep shock. But beyond the sorrow, his life story stands as a testament to resilience, versatility, and the ability to turn humor into a powerful art form.

Early Life and Entry into Entertainment

Born in Tamil Nadu, Shankar grew up with an innate ability to make people laugh. His early years were marked by a fascination with mimicry and spontaneous comedy, which would later shape his career. Unlike many comedians who relied solely on slapstick, Shankar had a knack for blending sharp wit with physical humor, a quality that would help him break into television.

Rise to Fame on Television

Robo Shankar first gained recognition through the small screen. His performances on Tamil comedy shows quickly made him a household name. He stood out for his improvisation, spontaneity, and unique brand of humor that appealed to both urban and rural audiences. His stage presence, coupled with an instinctive comic timing, made him an instant favorite among viewers.

The nickname “Robo” came from his robotic-style dance and performance routines in stage shows — a title that stuck with him throughout his career.

Transition to Films

Television gave Shankar visibility, but cinema cemented his place in popular culture. His transition to films was seamless, and he quickly began landing roles alongside some of the biggest names in the Tamil industry.

He acted with Ajith in Viswasam, Vijay in Puli, Suriya in Si3, and Vikram in Cobra. These appearances showcased his ability to adapt to different styles of comedy — from situational humor to supporting roles that carried emotional weight.

His standout films included Idharkuthaane Aasaipattai Balakumara, Vaayai Moodi Pesavum, Maari, and Velainu Vandhutta Vellaikaaran. In these roles, Shankar’s energy and personality often elevated even the simplest of scenes, making them memorable for audiences.

A Distinct Comic Style

What made Robo Shankar unique was his refusal to box himself into one comedic stereotype. He could play the mischievous sidekick, the lovable buffoon, or the character with surprising emotional depth. Unlike many comedians who relied heavily on one-liners, Shankar thrived on body language, timing, and the ability to carry a scene with little more than a look or gesture.

Challenges and Health Struggles

Reports suggest that Shankar faced health challenges in recent years, including the condition that ultimately led to his passing. He reportedly collapsed earlier in the week and was admitted to GEM Hospital, where doctors battled to save him after he suffered a severe gastrointestinal bleed and multiple organ complications. Despite intensive care, he succumbed on Thursday evening.

Family and Personal Life

Beyond the spotlight, Robo Shankar was a family man. He is survived by his wife and daughter, both of whom stood by him through his journey in the entertainment world. His family has been at the center of tributes pouring in, with fans and colleagues offering condolences and support during this painful period.

The Legacy He Leaves Behind

Shankar’s career may have been cut short, but his influence will remain long-lasting. He redefined what it meant to be a comedian in modern Tamil cinema, proving that humor could be intelligent, relatable, and deeply entertaining. For many fans, he wasn’t just an actor but a companion who brought laughter during difficult times.

The Tamil film fraternity has expressed deep grief over his passing, with colleagues remembering him as not only a performer but also a warm and generous friend. Social media has been flooded with tributes, clips of his best performances, and heartfelt messages celebrating his contribution to Tamil entertainment.

Final Goodbye

His final rites are scheduled at his Chennai residence, where family, colleagues, and fans will gather to pay their respects. For those who grew up watching him on television or laughing at his antics on the big screen, the farewell will be bittersweet — a goodbye to a man who made laughter his life’s work.

Conclusion

Robo Shankar’s journey from television mimicry to starring alongside Tamil cinema giants is proof of talent, perseverance, and the enduring power of humor. His death at 46 is not just the loss of an actor but of a cultural figure who embodied joy. While his physical presence will be missed, his performances remain etched in the memory of audiences, ensuring that Robo Shankar will continue to live on every time his scenes draw a smile.