Malayalam actor Innocent passes away at 75
Veteran Malayalam actor and former MP Innocent passed away at VPS Lakeshore Hospital in Kochi on Sunday. He was 75.
A part of the medical bulletin issued by the authorities of Lakeshore Hospital read, “He was under our care and treatment since March 3, 2023. Covid related respiratory issues along with multiple organ failure and a cardiac arrest led to his death.”
Innocent, a cancer survivor, was admitted to VPS Lakeshore Hospital in Kochi on March 3 after he complained of breathing issues and uneasiness. The 75-year-old actor had reportedly not been well for some time.
The actor made his silver screen debut in 1972 with Nrithasala. In a career spanning five decades, he featured in over 750 films, including Akkare Ninnoru Maran, Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Unnikale Oru Kadha Parayam, Nadodikkattu, Mukunthetta Sumitra Vilikkunnu, Vadakkunokkiyantram, Ramji Rao Speaking, Peruvannapurathe Visheshangal and Mazhavil Kavadi, Thoovalsparsham, Gajakesariyogam, Dr Pasupathy, No.20 Madras Mail, Kottayam Kunjachan, Kilukkam, Sandesham, Keli, Adhwaytham, Kabooliwala, Vietnam Colony and Devaasuram. The actor even bankrolled movies like Vida Parayum Munpe, Ilakkangal and Ormakkayi. He also served as the president of Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) for 15 years.
A few years ago, Innocent had been diagnosed with cancer. However, in 2015, the actor announced that he was cancer-free. He chronicled his battle with the illness in the book titled Laughter in the Cancer Ward.
The actor was last seen in Prithviraj starrer Kaduva, which hit screens last year. Paachuvum Albhuthavilakkum, set to hit screens on April 28, will mark his final screen outing.
Celebrities across south India took to social media to mourn the demise of the beloved artiste.
Prithviraj Sukumaran tweeted, “End of an iconic chapter in cinema history! Rest in peace Legend! ????????#Innocent.” Khushbu Sundar wrote on Twitter, “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 ????????.” Bhavana took to her Instagram story and wrote, “An irreplaceable talent.” Pearle Maaney posted a photo with Innocent and wrote, “Innocent Sir… ???? You will always be Loved Remembered and Respected for Who you were….”
Innocent is survived by his wife and two children.
