It was under tragic conditions that Tamil comedy actor Robo Shankar passed away on 18 September 2025, aged 46. News was issued from different sources: he had collapsed at the filming of a Chennai movie, fought medical complications, and passed away in hospital under treatment. The sudden passing of the actor has stunned all those involved in the world of cinema and all those many individuals that he was well-liked by.
What Happened: Sudden Collapse and Final Hours
Reports say Robo Shankar collapsed while shooting for one of the films—some while shooting in Chennai—and was straight away admitted to a private hospital. He was admitted into the ICU after his health worsened, with accounts of liver and renal ailments,low blood pressure, renal failure,multi-organ dysfunction, and sequelae of jaundice that he had just endured.
His health was already weakened; he had recovered from jaundice over the last months, and weight loss was apparent. Despite medical care, the procedures could not hold him steady. He passed away during the evening at a Chennai hospital, between 8:30 and 9:05 PM, according to different sources.
Filmography & Rise to Fame
Robo Shankar’s was a journey of perseverance, humor, and gradually growing fame. Born Shankar on 24 December 1978 in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, he was soon nicknamed “Robo” in the early days of his professional career while doing special “robot-dance” steps during stage shows.
- Television Start: He came to fame with comedy shows on TV, mostly Kalakka Povathu Yaaru? (on Vijay TV), for whom his imitation and sense of humor served.
- Film Roles & Highlights: He slowly transitioned to films and delivered memorable comedy roles in films such as Maari, Viswasam, Velainu Vandhutta Vellaikaaran, Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara, Maari 2, Cobra and numerous others. He was versatile enough to blend easily into cameo, supporting and comedy relief roles.
- He was also seen in numerous reality shows and teleserials, appeared in comedy contests, and earned the reputation of being a seasoned comedian with the knack of energizing scenes even through minimal screen presence.
Outpouring of Condolences
The death of Robo Shankar prompted an immediate and heartfelt reaction from the Tamil film fraternity, political leaders, and fans alike.
- Kamal Haasan paid a deeply emotional tribute. He likened Robo Shankar to a younger brother, writing a poem in which he said, “You have gone, but you have not left; your job may be done, but my job is not done.”
- Venkat Prabhu, director and close associate, expressed grief, calling him a friend gone too soon, sending “deepest condolences to family and friends.”
- Radikaa Sarathkumar, prominent actress, also shared heartfelt words, saying he always kept everyone happy, worked hard, gave his best, and that his loss is truly great.
- Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin conveyed solidarity with his family and the entire film industry, mourning the loss of a talent who brought joy to people through stage, television, and cinema.
Why the Loss Feels Especially Painful
Robo Shankar was not just another comedian, he was everyman’s laughter. He was humble in approach, warm in presence, and good at having punchlines land just right minus over-theatricality. He bridged the space between stage comedy, screen, and films with relatability that earned love from all ages.
Moreover, his latest health struggles—jaundice, weight loss, ceaseless medical issues—had been familiar to some of his fans. People had noticed less of him socially and less social media activity. If the individual whose profession is comedy is fighting unseen, it hits us, reminding us all that it can come quick and that even the comedians are having invisible battles.
His Legacy: What He Leaves Behind
- Strong Filmography: From Kalakka Povathu Yaaru? to mainstream films with names like Vijay, Dhanush, Vishnu Vishal, and others, his CV is diversified and powerful. He was capable of giving memorable cameos—lines, expressions, and comedy easily went viral or were quotable.
- Television and Reality Show Appearances: Aside from movies, he was also a regular in tv comedies and reality shows. His last appearance was in Top Cooku Dupe Cooku Season 2. He had captivated all of us as the man who never took everything seriously even as he was weakening in health.
- Personal Traits & Relationships: He is survived by wife Priyanka Shankar and by daughter Indraja Shankar (who is also in show business), Robo Shankar is survived by family and many friends who considered him humble, eager to work, and never wanting to stop making people laugh.
Health Details & Final Moments
He was diagnosed with jaundice several months ago and had lost quite a bit of weight. His kidney and liver function was said to have been compromised.
He had collapsed while filming for a movie one day before he died. Fluctuation of blood pressure, renal failure, multi-organ dysfunction and gastrointestinal disturbances were observed. He was admitted at Perungudi, GEM Hospital, Chennai
Funeral rites will be performed in Chennai, and industry and fans will be allowed to offer their respects at his residence.