Today we mourn the loss of Malayalam legendary comedian Innocent, passed away on March 26th, 2023. Innocent was an iconic actor in the Malayalam film industry, having starred in over 500 films and numerous stage shows. He was known for his hilarious yet heart-warming performances that made audiences laugh and cry. His contribution to Malayalam cinema has been remarkable, making him one of the most beloved stars in India.
This Article Include
Innocent Passed Away At The Age of 75
Malayalam legendary comedian Innocent died on March 26th, 2023, at 10.45 PM. After being diagnosed with a lung infection, he underwent treatment for over two weeks at a private hospital in Kochi. Unfortunately, his condition worsened, leading to his shift to the intensive care unit (ICU).
Innocent was an iconic figure in the Malayalam film industry and acted in over 500 films during his four decades-long career. He was known for his unique style of comedy and impeccable timing that made audiences laugh out loud. His performances were characterized by his ability to effortlessly switch between emotions and leave an indelible mark on the audience’s minds. The news of Innocent’s passing has left the entire film fraternity and his fans devastated. He was diagnosed with Cancer in 2020, which kept him away from the industry.
More About The Legendry Actor Innocent
Born on February 28, 1948, Innocent Vareed Thekkethala was an Indian actor and politician. In addition to Malayalam, Hindi, English, Tamil, and Kannada films, he primarily plays comedic roles in Malayalam films. He has appeared in over 750 films and is regarded as one of the greatest comedians in Malayalam cinema. He has also played antagonists in films such as Mazhavilkavadi, Ponmuttayidunna Tharavu, and Ganamela. Innocent has received numerous accolades, including three Kerala State Film Awards. In India’s 16th Lok Sabha, he represented the Chalakudy constituency as a member of parliament.
In 1972, Innocent debuted in the film industry with the film Nrityashala. Initially, he produced a few films but was unsuccessful. In his extensive career, Innocent has appeared in over 500 films in various roles, primarily in Malayalam. Additionally, he has appeared in a few Tamil and Hindi films.
In films such as Ramji Rao Speaking, Mannar Mathai Speaking, Kilukkam, Godfather, Vietnam Colony, Nadodikattu, Manicharathazhu, and Kalyanaraman, Innocent played comedic roles. Additionally, Innocent has excelled in character and antagonist roles, such as Keli and Kathoram Kathoram.
Other films included Kabooliwaala, Gajakesariyogam, Mithunam, Mazhavilkavadi, Manassinakkare, Thuruppugulan, Rasathanthram, Naran, and Mahasamudram. Together with the superstars who starred in these films, he contributed significantly to their success. In films such as Ponn Muttayidunna Tharavu, My Dear Muthachchan, The Godfather, and Manichitrathazhu, his pairings with K. P. A. C. Lalitha were highly successful. 2020 is the only year since 1980; he has not appeared in films due to cancer treatment.
Also Check: Tamil Actor Ajith Kumar’s Father Passed Away at 84
Awards & Achievements
- 1989 – Second Best Actor – Mazhavil Kavadi
- 1981 – Second Best Film (Producer) – Vida Parayum Munpe
- 1982 – Second Best Film (Producer) – Ormakkayi
Kerala State Film Critics Award
- 2009 – Best Actor – Patham Nilayile Theevandi
- 2001 – Supporting Actor Award – Ravanaprabhu
- 2004 – Supporting Actor Award – Vesham
- 2006 – Best Actor in a Comic Role – Rasathanthram, Yes, Your Honour
- 2008 – Supporting Actor Award – Innathe Chintha Vishayam
- 2010 – Character Actor Award –Kadha Thudarunnu
- 2011 – Character Actor Award –Snehaveedu, Swapna Sanchari
- 2013 – Lifetime Achievement Award
Other awards
- 2004 – Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor – Malayalam for Manassinakkare
- 2007 – Sathyan Award
- 2008 – Annual Malayalam Movie Award (Dubai) for Outstanding Performance
- 2013 – TTK Prestige-Vanitha Film Awards – Lifetime Achievement Award
- 2019 –He is Distributing Awards Realtors Investors Summit
Tribute To The Beloved Actor
End of an iconic chapter in cinema history! Rest in peace Legend! 🙏💔#Innocent pic.twitter.com/NkPGlnSnxB
— Prithviraj Sukumaran (@PrithviOfficial) March 26, 2023
Devastated!! We have lost a great actor. Moreso a great human being. What a legend he was. With the passing away of #Innocent Sir, we have lost a priceless gem. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his followers.
Om Shanti 🙏🙏 pic.twitter.com/l8ZonwMPKu— KhushbuSundar (@khushsundar) March 26, 2023
Mourning the loss of character actor, comedian & one-time Kerala MP Innocent, who has just passed away at age 75. Aside from being a brilliantly inventive & gifted actor, he was a fine human being whom it was a pleasure to interact with in the Lok Sabha. RIP. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/m9mFGI8DwM
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) March 26, 2023
