Veteran Tamil actor Rajesh passed away on Thursday (May 29) following health complications. He was 75. According to reports, the actor had complained of low blood pressure and breathing difficulties and was rushed to a hospital in Chennai. His family reportedly confirmed that he died on the way to the hospital.
The actor's mortal remains are being taken to his residence in Ramapuram, Chennai. His funeral will be held after his daughter returns from the United States. Rajesh is survived by his son and daughter. His wife, Joan Sylvia Vanathirayar, passed away in 2012.
Superstar Rajinikanth mourned his 'close friend' Rajesh's death on X (formerly known as Twitter). In an emotional note, he wrote, "The sudden demise of my close friend, actor Rajesh, has come as a shock to me. It brings immense sorrow. He was a wonderful human being - may his soul rest in peace. My deepest condolences to his family and friends."
Actress Radhika Sarathkumar also mourned his death. She wrote on X, "Deeply shocked and sudden to hear of #rajesh s unexpected demise. Shared so many movies together and had a deep respect to his wide knowledge of cinema and life, will be missed by family, friends and film fraternity. #RIP"
Known for his intense performances and powerful screen presence, Rajesh acted in over 100 Tamil films in a career spanning several decades. He was introduced by legendary filmmaker K Balachander in the critically acclaimed film Aval Oru Thodarkadhai. Some of his most notable works include Thanneer Thanneer, Andha 7 Naatkal, and Payanangal Mudivadhillai.
While Rajesh was best known for his supporting roles, he also played the lead in several films. Kanni Paruvathile marked his debut as a hero. His work extended beyond Tamil cinema, with appearances in a few Telugu and Malayalam films. Between 2001 and 2016, he also lent his voice as a dubbing artist for various Tamil projects.
Rajesh was a familiar face on Tamil television as well, with popular serials like Alaigal, Roja, Poove Unakkaga, and Kana Kaanum Kaalangal to his credit.
He was last seen in the Tamil version of Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi's Merry Christmas. The film released in January 2024.
