Renowned Tamil actor Vivek dies at 59 after suffering heart attack

Celebrities and fans mourn the beloved comedian with tributes on social media

Tamil actor Vivek passed away in a hospital on Saturday. Silverscreen Media Inc.

Tamil actor Vivek died at a hospital in Chennai, India on Saturday. He was 59.

The popular actor and comedian was admitted to the intensive care unit of the hospital after suffering a heart attack on Friday, Indian news media reported.

The actor, who was admitted in the intensive care unit of the hospital, was in critical condition.

Vivek had made news headlines earlier on Thursday after taking his first Covid-19 vaccine shot at a government hospital as part of a campaign to promote vaccination and raise awareness.

The hospital said that the actor's cardiac arrest "may not be due to Covid vaccination," Indian news company NDTV reported.

Celebrities and fans were quick to mourn the actor's sudden death, with #RIPVivek trending on social media.

Musician AR Rahman tweeted his condolences.

"Can't believe you've left us. May you rest in peace. You've entertained us for decades. Your legacy will stay with us," Rahman tweeted.

Indian actor Gautham Karthik wrote: "He made us laugh, he educated us through his performances, he cared for this world and helped teach us how to take care of it. There will never be another like you sir. We will miss you."

Indian actor Vikram Prabhu wrote: "You were a reason for many smiles and laughters sir. A great comedian, wonderful actor and a socially conscious citizen. Unbearable to think you are not there anymore. Will miss you as one of your fans."

The renowned comedian was known for his work in Tamil cinema and his performances often touched on social commentary.

In 2009, he was bestowed with the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award by the union government.

His last film was Dharala Prabhu, a Tamil remake of the Hindi film Vicky Donor. He is also part of director Shankar's coming film Indian 2, which stars Kamal Haasan in the lead role.

Vivek is survived by his wife and two daughters.