Tamil comedy actor Mayilsamy passes away at 57, Kamal Haasan, Vikram lead condolences

Popular Tamil comedian Mayilsamy passed away on Sunday morning due to his ill health. He was 57. 

Mayilsamy made his screen debut with filmmaker-actor K Bhagyaraj's Dhavani Kanavugal in 1984. And instantly he became a popular choice to play comedic side roles. He has worked with all the leading stars of Tamil cinema and collaborated with comedy icons such as Vadivelu and Vivek, who passed away in 2021. Mayilsamy was at his best when he worked with Vivek. His comedy gag in 2001's Dhill was one of his career highlights. In the film, starring Vikram in the lead role, Mayilsamy plays one of Vivek's employees who takes advantage of his ignorance and tricks him into giving him money. He gave memorable performances in other films including Ullam Kollai Poguthae, Poovellam Un Vasam, Dhool, Ghilli, Thiruvilaiyaadal Aarambam, and Naan Avanillai to name a few. 

Mayilsamy was also a seasoned stage performer and mimicry artist. He made his television debut as a judge on the popular comedy show Asathapovathu Yaaru. 

Mayilsamy's untimely death has sent a shock wave across the Tamil film industry. In the wee hours of Sunday, he was seen taking part in Maha Shivratri celebrations at Kelambakkam Meghnatheeswarar Temple in Chennai. 

"Every year on Maha Shivarati Mayilsamy and I never miss meeting each other. This time there is a Shiva temple near Vadalure, his favourite temple, he took me there. I played the drums as he held the mic and he chanted OM. He was very happy. And I took a leave from him saying I wanted to go to Marundeeswarar Temple in Thiruvanmiyur. He said he also wanted to come. But, I asked him to go home and take some rest," said popular drums player Sivamani. 

Tamil film celebrities have expressed their condolences over the demise of Mayilsamy. 

"Mayilsamy, a friend, became successful with his unique style of comedy acting. Many will remember him for his helping nature. My tribute to a dear friend," Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan tweeted his condolences. 

"Your sweet funny ways will always be remembered dear Mayil. RIP," tweeted actor Vikram. 

Mayilsamy is survived by his wife Shantha and son Arumainayagam.