Veteran Malayalam actor TP Madhavan dies at 88

Veteran Malayalam actor TP Madhavan died at 88. Known for his versatility, he acted in over 600 films and was the first General Secretary of AMMA.

In Short

• Veteran actor TP Madhavan died in Kollam, Kerala
• He acted in over 600 films, starting his career at age 40
• Madhavan was the first General Secretary of AMMA

Veteran Malayalam actor TP Madhavan died 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 Artists (AMMA) had been admitted in critical condition before being placed on a ventilator in his final days due to stomach related ailments. The last rites will be held on Thursday at Santhi Kavadam in Thiruvananthapuram.

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

Initially gaining recognition for portraying villainous characters, Madhavan transitioned into comedy roles and later became celebrated for his cherished character performances. His final on-screen appearance was in the 2016 film Malgudi Days.

Beyond his acting career, Madhavan was the first General Secretary of AMMA, contributing significantly to the Malayalam film industry off-screen. However, health issues, including a stroke after brain surgery in 2015, led him to live at Gandhi Bhavan, a charitable home in Pathanapuram, where he spent his remaining years.

Madhavan was the son of the esteemed professor NP Pillai and held a postgraduate 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.