Tamil actor-comedian Robo Shankar, the man who could make even a statue smile, has bid adieu to the world at the ripe age of 46. A tragic turn of events unfolded on Thursday, right inside the sparkly confines of GEM Hospital in Chennai.
According to a riveting statement from the hospital, Robo was wheeled in on September 16, 2025, looking like a million bucks… minus a few organs. He was suffering from a massive gastrointestinal bleed and multiorgan dysfunction – a combination that sounds more like a poorly reviewed buffet than a critical medical condition. The medical team worked tirelessly to keep him afloat, but alas, the universe had other plans. He departed this world on September 18, at precisely 9:05 PM, likely ready for his next big gig in the afterlife.
The entertainment industry, known for its emotional roller coasters, kicked into high gear the moment news of his passing circulated. Veteran actor Kamal Haasan expressed his heartfelt sorrow, calling Robo “a human” who, in his dictionary, remains a brother. In his emotional tribute, Kamal lamented, “You’re leaving, but my job feels like it has just begun. Thanks for handing me the baton… sort of.” The irony of it all!
Radikaa Sarathkumar joined the chorus of condolences, declaring Robo a stalwart of humor and hard work. “Just when we thought there was no one left to keep us laughing, here we are!” she tweeted, adding her prayers for his family – because those are always the go-to in moments of unexpected tragedy.
Even Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister MK Stalin couldn’t resist jumping into the condolence party. He issued a statement that sounded part obituary, part resume, reminding everyone that Robo’s career spanned from stage to cinema. “He entertained Tamil Nadu,” he noted, perhaps implying that we could all use a little more entertainment in our lives, especially after this news.
Beyond the stages and silver screens, Robo was also a household name in the realm of television, gracing shows like ‘Kings of Comedy Juniors’—which, let’s be honest, was only a clever cover-up for an adult talent contest. His role in Dhanush’s ‘Maari’ remains one of his finest moments, a film that probably should have had its own warning label for excessive fun.
As we roll eyes and wipe away tears, let’s not forget Robo Shankar’s legacy: an uncanny ability to make us laugh while giving us a gentle nudge towards our next big meal… eer, I mean, big project. Here’s hoping he finds laughter in the great beyond. After all, if heaven has a comedy club, he’ll certainly have front-row seats.
