Veteran Malayalam actor TP Madhavan passed away on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at a private hospital in Kollam, Kerala. Madhavan, who served as the first general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA), was admitted in a critical condition due to stomach-related ailments before being put on a ventilator in his last days. The last rites will be held on Thursday at Shanthi Kavadam in Thiruvananthapuram.

Madhavan, a leading figure of Malayalam cinema, began his acting career at the age of 40 with the 1975 film Love Marriage. Over the years, he became known for his versatile roles in over 600 films, including classics such as Nadodikkattu (1987), Thalayanmantharam (1990), Vietnam Colony (1992), and Udayanu Tharam (2005).

After initially gaining recognition for portraying villainous characters, Madhavan transitioned to comedy roles and later became famous for his beloved character performances. His last on-screen appearance was in the 2016 film Malgudi Days.

Beyond his acting career, Madhavan was the first General Secretary of AMMA, making significant contributions to the Malayalam film industry off-screen. However, health problems including a stroke following brain surgery in 2015 forced him to move to Gandhi Bhavan, a charitable home in Pathanapuram, where he spent his remaining years.

Madhavan was the son of distinguished professor NP Pillai and held a master’s degree in sociology. Before his acting career, he ran advertising agencies in Mumbai and Kolkata.

Madhavan is survived by his children, including son Raja Krishna Menon, a Bollywood director.