Vijay Sethupathi

Vijay Sethupathi
Vijay Sethupathi in 2024
Born	Sethupathi Gurunatha Vijaya<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi Rapid Fire | MASTER Audio Launch | Sun TV - YouTube". www.youtube.com. 17 March 2020. Archived from the original on 24 June 2021. Retrieved 3 January 2021.</ref> (1978-01-16) 16 January 1978<ref>K., Janani (16 January 2021). "On Vijay Sethupathi's birthday, Samantha, Varalaxmi and South celebs wish Master star". India Today. Archived from the original on 27 August 2021. Retrieved 27 August 2021.</ref> Rajapalayam, Tamil Nadu, India
Other names	Makkal Selvan<ref>"Revealed: How Vijay Sethupathi got Makkal Selvan title". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 11 October 2020. Retrieved 8 September 2020.</ref>
Alma mater	Dhanraj Baid Jain College
Occupation	Actor film producer
Years active	2004–present<ref name="indiatimes1">"I was rejected even for the role of a junior artist". The Times of India. 17 December 2012. Archived from the original on 31 December 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref>
Works	Full list
Spouse(s)	Jessie ( m. 2003)
Children	2, including Surya

Sethupathi Gurunatha Vijaya (born 16 January 1978), known professionally as Vijay Sethupathi, is an Indian actor and film producer who predominantly works in Tamil cinema and occasionally in Telugu and Hindi cinema.<ref name="Sethupathi Tamil actor">SUDHIR SRINIVASAN (29 June 2016). "'Facebook affected me as a human'". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 26 December 2018. Retrieved 30 June 2016.</ref><ref name="Sethupathi's break">IANS (4 February 2013). "Not in hurry to sign films". The New indian Express. Archived from the original on 26 December 2018. Retrieved 4 July 2016.</ref> One of the highest paid actors in Indian Cinema, Sethupathi is the recipient of several accolades, including a National Film Award, two Filmfare Awards South and two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards.

Following a stint as an NRI accountant in Dubai, Sethupathi started his film career working as a background actor and initially played minor supporting roles before his first lead role in Thenmerku Paruvakaatru (2010). In 2012, he rose to fame with Sundarapandian, Pizza and Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom.<ref>"Audio Beat: Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom". The Hindu. 21 July 2012. Archived from the original on 29 November 2012. Retrieved 7 August 2012.</ref>

Sethupathi established himself as a successful actor with films such as Soodhu Kavvum (2013), Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara (2013), Pannaiyarum Padminiyum (2014), Kadhalum Kadandhu Pogum (2016), Iraivi (2016), Vikram Vedha (2017), '96 (2018), Chekka Chivantha Vaanam (2018), Petta (2019), Master (2021), Vikram (2022), Viduthalai Part 1 (2023), Viduthalai Part 2 (2024), Jawan (2023) Maharaja (2024) and Thalaivan Thalaivi (2025).<ref>"5 Must-Watch Vijay Sethupathi Films That Prove Why His Fans Call Him 'Makkal Selvan'". 7 July 2022.</ref> For playing a trans woman in Super Deluxe (2019), he won the National Film Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role.

Early life

Vijaya Gurunatha Sethupathi Kalimuthu was born on 16 January 1978 and was raised in Rajapalayam until he moved to Chennai in 6th class.<ref name="thehindu4">Sudhish Kamath (31 March 2010). "Full of pizzazz!". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 16 June 2018. Retrieved 19 September 2013.</ref> He lived in Ennore located in North Chennai. He attended the MGR Higher Secondary School in Kodambakkam and Little Angels Mat. Hr. Sec. School.<ref name="thehindu4"/> According to Sethupathi, he was a "below-average student right from school" and was neither interested in sports nor extra-curricular activities.<ref name="indiatimes1"/><ref name="deccanchronicle1">Limitton, Teena (23 May 2013) My Struggle is my Strength: Vijay Sethupathi. Deccan Chronicle</ref> At age 16, he auditioned for a role in Nammavar (1994), but was rejected due to his short height.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi: The average Joe who made it big in Tamil films". Hindustan Times. 8 September 2016. Archived from the original on 17 October 2020. Retrieved 17 October 2020.</ref>

Sethupathi did a series of odd jobs for pocket money: salesman at a retail store, cashier at a fast food joint and a phone booth operator.<ref name="thehindu4"/> He graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the Dhanraj Baid Jain College (an affiliate of the University of Madras) in Thoraipakam.<ref name="deccanchronicle1"/> A week after he finished college, he joined as an account assistant at a wholesale cement business.<ref name="thehindu4"/> He had to take care of three siblings and moved to Dubai, United Arab Emirates as an accountant because it paid him four times what he was earning in India. While in Dubai, he met his future-wife, Jessie, online. The two dated, eventually marrying in 2003.<ref name="thehindu4"/>

Unhappy with his job, he returned to India in 2003.<ref name="thehindu1">Y. Sunita Chowdhary (2 December 2012). "In a happy space". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 26 March 2020. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref><ref name="thehindu2">K. R. Manigandan (16 September 2012). "Beyond numbers". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 26 December 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> After a brief stint in the interior decoration business with friends, he joined a marketing company that dealt with readymade kitchens when he saw Koothu-P-Pattarai's poster.<ref name="thehindu4"/> He recalled director Balu Mahendra remarking that he had a "very photogenic face",<ref name="thehindu1"/> and motivated him to pursue an acting career; however he never cast Sethupathi in his films.<ref>"30 Minutes with Vijay Sethupathi &#124; 30 Minutes With Us". iStream. Retrieved 10 May 2013.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)</ref>

Career

2004–2011

He subsequently joined the Chennai-based theatre group Koothu-P-Pattarai as an accountant and actor where he observed actors from close quarters.<ref name="thehindu2"/><ref>"Vijay Sethupathi: From an accountant to the most bankable Tamil actor – Economic Times". The Economic Times. 29 June 2013. Archived from the original on 27 March 2017. Retrieved 14 May 2020.</ref> He made his beginnings as a background actor, particularly playing the role of the lead character's friend in a few films.<ref name="indiatimes1"/> He also acted in television series, including Penn that began in March 2006,<ref>"Metro Plus Madurai / Telewatch : Another soap". The Hindu. 4 March 2006. Archived from the original on 18 January 2012. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> as well as several short films as part of the television show Nalaya Iyakunar for Kalaignar TV.<ref name="thehindu2"/> He worked with Karthik Subbaraj on many short films, who later cast him in his first feature film,<ref name="indiatimes1"/> subsequently garnering him the Best Actor award for one of his films at the Norway Tamil Film Festival short film competition.<ref>"Metro Plus Bangalore / Columns : The 'reel' life". The Hindu. 3 June 2011. Archived from the original on 4 October 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref><ref>Raghavi 2 (25 April 2011). "Norway Tamil Film Festival – Celebration of Global Tamil Cinema". Ntff.no. Archived from the original on 4 October 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)</ref>

Sethupathi accompanied a group of actors who went to director Selvaraghavan's studio to audition for his gangster film Pudhupettai (2006) and was selected to play Dhanush's friend in the film.<ref name="thehindu2"/> After making an appearance in Prabu Solomon's Lee (2007),<ref>S. R. Ashok Kumar (21 July 2012). "Audio Beat: Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 23 September 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> he was cast by director Suseenthiran in minor supporting roles in his first two projects, Vennila Kabadi Kuzhu (2009) and Naan Mahaan Alla (2010). Sethupathi would later credit Suseenthiran with having had an "important role in helping him realise his dreams".<ref name="thehindu2"/> In 2010, he was associated with a Tamil-Kannada bilingual film called Akhaada. While he was selected to play the lead in the Tamil version, the director offered him the antagonistic role in its Kannada version. However, the film did not see a theatrical release.<ref name="thehindu2"/> Director Seenu Ramasamy identified Sethupathi's talent during the audition of his film and Sethupathi landed his first lead role in Ramasamy's drama film Thenmerku Paruvakaatru (2010),<ref>Rangarajan, Malathi (13 August 2016). "'The regions I show are an integral part of my stories'". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 11 October 2020. Retrieved 8 September 2020 – via www.thehindu.com.</ref> in which he portrayed a shepherd,<ref>Mannath, Malini (4 January 2011). "Thenmerku Paruvakaatru". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref><ref>"Cinema Plus / Film Review : Celebrating motherhood". The Hindu. 26 December 2010. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref><ref>"Movie Review : Thenmerku". Sify. 26 December 2010. Archived from the original on 28 December 2013. Retrieved 25 June 2013.</ref> the film went on to win three National Film Awards<ref>ChennaiMarch 23, Janani K. "Vijay Sethupathi thanks Thiagarajan Kumararaja for his National Award. Samantha reacts". India Today. Archived from the original on 24 March 2021. Retrieved 26 March 2021.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)</ref> including the prize for the Best Tamil Feature Film of that year.<ref>Petlee Peter (21 May 2011). "Plans to release award-winning movie afresh". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> He played a man from a lower class in Varnam (2011).<ref>Ramanujam, Srinivasa (17 December 2018). "Working with Rajini in 'Petta' was like a class in acting, says Vijay Sethupathi". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 6 June 2023. Retrieved 6 June 2023.</ref>

2012–2013

2012 marked a turning point in Sethupathi's career;<ref>"B-list actors turn safe bets for K-town". The Times of India. 21 February 2013.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)</ref> all his three releases were critical and commercial successes, resulting in a rise in his popularity.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi signs up 'Rummy'". The Times of India. 14 December 2012. Archived from the original on 21 September 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref><ref>"Vijay Sethupathy- Hat trick hero". Sify. 18 December 2012. Archived from the original on 2 April 2019. Retrieved 10 May 2013.</ref> He was first seen in a negative role in Sundarapandian which featured M. Sasikumar in the lead role,<ref>N Venkateswaran (16 September 2012). "Sundarapandian". The Times of India. TNN. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> and then played the lead roles in the directorial debuts of Karthik Subbaraj and Balaji Tharaneetharan, the thriller film Pizza and the comedy entertainer Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom, respectively. He enacted the role of Michael, a delivery boy in the former and a young man named Prem who sustains short-term memory loss two days before his marriage in the latter, with his performance in both films being praised by critics.<ref>"Pizza movie review: Wallpaper, Story, Trailer". The Times of India. 21 October 2012. Archived from the original on 19 February 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref><ref>Malathi Rangarajan (20 October 2012). "Pizza: Freshly made". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 30 March 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> Malini Mannath from The New Indian Express in her review of Pizza wrote: "Sethupathy, a delight to watch, carries the entire film on his shoulders. His voice perfectly modulated, he proves his versatility and acumen to handle any role. Michael's nightmarish experience, and his fear and horror when he's trapped in the mansion, is perfectly conveyed by the actor".<ref>Mannath, Malini (23 October 2012). "'Pizza' (Tamil)". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 7 April 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> His performance in Pizza earned him his first nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil. With regard to Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom, The Times of India reviewer M. Suganth cited that Sethupathi "continues his superb show from Pizza conveying Prem's peculiar condition with vacant stares and amusing pauses between his lines", further noting: "That he never makes the character's repetitive dialogues irritating is a proof of his terrific timing".<ref>"Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom movie review: Wallpaper, Story, Trailer". The Times of India. 1 December 2012. Archived from the original on 5 December 2012. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> Pizza and Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom both competed at the 2013 Norway Tamil Film Festival,<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi's films go to Norway". The Times of India. TNN. 24 January 2013.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)</ref> while Sethupathi won two awards, one for each film, at the Edison Awards and the Big FM Tamil Entertainment Awards.<ref>"6th Edition Edison Awards – Popping up the bottles of success". ChennaiOnline. 12 February 2013. Archived from the original on 15 October 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref><ref>"> News > Company Briefs > K Balachander awarded Life time Achievement award". afaqs!. 14 February 2013. Archived from the original on 12 January 2015. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref>

By the end of the year, film critic Baradwaj Rangan stated that Sethupathi had become "[...] sort of [an] indie-film star, the first ever in Tamil cinema".<ref>Baradwaj Rangan (14 December 2012). "Bergman, who? Hello new-age directors!". The Hindu. Retrieved 29 March 2013.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)</ref>

In 2013, he was first seen in the crime comedy Soodhu Kavvum that saw him playing the role of a forty-year-old kidnapper. The film opened to extremely positive reviews and became a huge box office success. Malini Mannath from The New Indian Express in her review wrote: "It's laudable that the actor doesn't hesitate to take a role that has him playing a 40-year-old man, greying and with a paunch".<ref>Mannath, Malini (4 May 2013). "'Soodhu Kavvum' (Tamil)". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 8 May 2013. Retrieved 27 May 2013.</ref> The Times of India reviewer N. Venkateswaran cited that "His knack of choosing good roles and working with new directors brimming with ideas will stand him in good stead, as also the work he puts in to portray each character. He put on weight and grew a beard to play Das, and the look fits him to a 'T'".<ref>N. Venkateswaran (4 May 2012). "Woodhull Vacuum is a rage among audiences". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 14 December 2013. Retrieved 27 May 2013.</ref> His next release was Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara, directed by Gokul. It was met with positive reviews by critics and Vijay Sethupathi's performance was highly praised. Haricharan Pudipeddi from The New Indian Express in his review wrote: "Vijay Sethupathi has become a darling of the masses. Scene after scene, the audience hoots and cheers for him in unison."<ref>Haricharan Pudipeddi (2 October 2013). "Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara : Entertainment with a purpose". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 22 December 2014. Retrieved 28 November 2014.</ref> Rediff reviewer S.Saraswathi cited that "His greatest strength lies in being able to counter the stereotypical image of heroes in commercial cinema today. In every film, we see him in a completely different avatar, and his latest film is no different. Vijay Sethupathi seems to have the knack of choosing the right role and script and he effortlessly slips into his character as Kumar."<ref>S. Saraswathi (2 October 2013). "Review: Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara is a laugh riot". Rediff. Archived from the original on 5 December 2014. Retrieved 28 November 2014.</ref>

2014–2015

In 2014, his films Rummy and Pannaiyarum Padminiyum were released, both directed by debutants.<ref>Venkadesan S (22 November 2012). "Vijay Sethupathi on a roll!". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 5 April 2013. Retrieved 29 November 2012.</ref> Pannaiyarum Padminiyum, based on its same-titled short film, revolved around an old man and his vintage car Premier Padmini, with Sethupathi starring as its chauffeur.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi wanted Padmini!". The Times of India. TNN. 2 February 2013. Archived from the original on 5 November 2013. Retrieved 29 March 2013.</ref> The film opened to predominantly positive reviews from critics and is the only Tamil film which has been selected to be screened at the 19th International Film Festival of Kerala.<ref>"7 films to be screened at Indian Cinema Now at IFFK". The Hindu. 2 November 2014. Archived from the original on 29 November 2014. Retrieved 20 November 2014.</ref> The same year Akhaada resurfaced in the media as it was being dubbed into Tamil as Edakku by its makers, to profit from Sethupathi's popularity in Tamil Nadu.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi was the villain". The Times of India. 27 June 2014. Archived from the original on 1 July 2014. Retrieved 27 June 2014.</ref> The film was being promoted as a Sethupathi film, with the actor being prominently featured in the posters, although he had only a minor role in it, and Sethupathi stated that the audience would feel cheated after seeing the film, if it was promoted this way.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi unhappy with cheap publicity tactics". The Times of India. 28 June 2014. Archived from the original on 1 July 2014. Retrieved 1 July 2014.</ref> He was next seen in the action drama Vanmam directed by debutant Jaikrishna. Though the film was met with average reviews, Sethupathi's performance was praised by critics. Malini Mannath from The New Indian Express in his review wrote : "It's Vijay Sethupathi's film the whole way. The actor renders a power packed performance, capturing each nuance of the character with precision and understanding".<ref>Malini Mannath (23 November 2014). "Vanmam Movie Review : Big Treat for Fans of Sethupathi". The New Indian Express. Archived from the original on 22 December 2014. Retrieved 28 November 2014.</ref>

In 2015, he was first seen in the political thriller Purampokku Engira Podhuvudamai directed by S. P. Jananathan. It was met with positive reviews by critics and Sethupathi's performance was highly praised. The Times of India reviewer M. Suganth cited that "Vijay Sethupathi redeems everything with a sensitive performance.Balusamy might be the film's central character, but it is Yamalingam who is its beating heart."<ref>M. Suganth (15 May 2015). "Purampokku Engira Podhuvudamai Movie Review". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 19 May 2015. Retrieved 19 May 2015.</ref> Rediff reviewer S.Saraswathi cited that "Vijay Sethupathi, as a tormented soul loath to pull the lever that will release the trapdoor and take a life, is perhaps the best."<ref>S. Saraswathi (18 May 2015). "Review: Purampokku... is a compelling political thriller". Rediff. Archived from the original on 22 May 2015. Retrieved 22 May 2015.</ref> In July 2015, his first movie as producer Orange Mittai directed by Biju Viswanath got released and met with positive reviews by the critics and entertainment portals. He was next seen in the rom-com Naanum Rowdy Dhaan directed by Vignesh Shivan which became his highest-grossing movie until date.<ref>"Naanum Rowdydhaan review – crowdpleasing Bollywood comedy-thriller deserves its success". The Guardian. 2 November 2015. Archived from the original on 31 July 2016. Retrieved 20 August 2020.</ref>

2016–present

Sethupathi in 2016

In 2016, he was first seen in the police action thriller Sethupathi directed by S. U. Arunkumar. Sethupathi received praise for his performance. Vishal Menon of The Hindu said that it was a good thriller and a better family drama.<ref>"Sethupathi: A good thriller, a better family drama". The Hindu. 19 February 2016. Archived from the original on 10 March 2016. Retrieved 4 March 2016.</ref> Latha Srinivasan of DNA wrote that there were no loud over-the-top dialogues and punchlines that were typical of all on-screen cops in Tamil films and Vijay Sethupathi outshone many other Kollywood heroes as the cop.<ref>"'Sethupathi' review: Vijay Sethupathi outshines many other Kollywood heroes as the cop". dna. 19 February 2016. Archived from the original on 15 June 2018. Retrieved 4 March 2016.</ref> Malini Mannath of The New Indian Express wrote that, "It is another feather in the cap for Vijay Sethupathi, who is revealing his versatility yet again as he handles his role with remarkable understanding."<ref>"Sethupathi Review: One More Feather in Sethupathi's Hat". The New Indian Express. 21 February 2016. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 4 March 2016.</ref> Anupama Subramaniam of Deccan Chronicle wrote that, "Sethupathi's moves are full of energy and enthusiasm and his impeccable dialogue delivery is a treat to watch."<ref>"Sethupathi movie review: A well-made entertainer that is not to be missed!". Deccan Chronicle. 20 February 2016. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 4 March 2016.</ref> He was next seen in the romantic comedy Kadhalum Kadandhu Pogum by Nalan Kumaraswamy.<ref>Srinivasan, Sudhir (5 March 2016). "'I am not Rajinikanth'". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 11 October 2020. Retrieved 7 September 2020 – via www.thehindu.com.</ref> His next release was Iraivi followed by Dharma Durai by Seenu Ramasamy,<ref>Rangan, Baradwaj (3 June 2016). "Iraivi: A few good women". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 30 August 2020. Retrieved 7 September 2020 – via www.thehindu.com.</ref><ref>"RK Suresh and Seenu Ramasamy talk about 4 years of Dharmadurai". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 11 October 2020. Retrieved 7 September 2020.</ref> Aandavan Kattalai and Rekka.<ref>Rangan, Baradwaj (23 September 2016). "Aandavan Kattalai: My dear visa". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 21 December 2016. Retrieved 7 September 2020 – via www.thehindu.com.</ref><ref>Menon, Vishal (7 October 2016). "Rekka: Men are from mass". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 30 June 2019. Retrieved 7 September 2020 – via www.thehindu.com.</ref><ref>Subha J. Rao (30 May 2015). "Looks don't matter, roles do". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 13 September 2017. Retrieved 31 May 2015.</ref> He was nicknamed Makkal Selvan (lit. people's man) by Seenu Ramasamy<ref>Vijay Sethupathi is now called Makkal Selvan! Archived 26 December 2017 at the Wayback Machine. Bollywoodlife.com (22 February 2016). Retrieved on 10 January 2018.</ref> while filming Dharma Durai, and has been popularly known by that since.<ref>Subramanian, Anupama (21 February 2016) Vijay the ‘Makkal Selvan’ . Deccan Chronicle. Retrieved on 10 January 2018.</ref> His next release was the long delayed mystery-thriller Puriyatha Puthir. Then, he appeared in the rural drama Karuppan directed by R. Panneerselvam. In 2017, he appeared in the neo-noir action thriller film Vikram Vedha in the lead role alongside Madhavan, which earned him his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil.<ref>"Vikram Vedha movie review: Don't miss this thriller starring Madhavan, Vijay Sethupathi". 21 July 2017. Archived from the original on 4 September 2019. Retrieved 20 August 2020.</ref>

In 2018, his first release was Oru Nalla Naal Paathu Solren directed by Arumugakumar.<ref>Menon, Vishal (2 February 2018). "'Oru Nalla Naal Paathu Solren' review: Almost funny". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 13 April 2018. Retrieved 20 August 2020 – via www.thehindu.com.</ref> Then, he acted in the action comedy Junga which was directed by Gokul and was produced by Sethupathi.<ref>"Junga Movie Review {3.5/5}: Junga is fully worth your time and money". The Times of India.</ref> He then appeared in Mani Ratnam's multi-starrer Chekka Chivantha Vaanam.<ref>Subramanian, Anupama (29 September 2018). "Chekka Chivantha Vaanam review: Mani Ratnam's drama will leave you spellbound". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 30 June 2019. Retrieved 20 August 2020.</ref> He then starred in C. Prem Kumar's romantic drama <nowiki/>'96 alongside Trisha which released a week after the release of Chekka Chivantha Vaanam.<ref>"96 Movie Review: Heartwarming tale of Vijay Sethupathi, Trisha's Unfulfilled Romance". News18. 6 October 2018. Archived from the original on 27 August 2019. Retrieved 20 August 2020.</ref> <nowiki/>'96 earned him his second Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil. He then acted in the Balaji Tharaneetharan-directorial Seethakaathi,<ref>"Vijay Sethupathy's 'Seethakaathi' look proves the actor's versatility once again". The News Minute. 16 January 2018. Archived from the original on 20 July 2018. Retrieved 31 October 2018.</ref> Thiagarajan Kumararaja's Super Deluxe and has acted in a negative role in Karthik Subbaraj's Petta alongside Rajinikanth.<ref>Saltz, Rachel (28 March 2019). "'Super Deluxe' Review: A Tamil Film, With a Cosmic Indie Vibe". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 5 September 2020. Retrieved 20 August 2020.</ref><ref>Ramanujam, Srinivasa (10 January 2019). "'Petta' review: A real Rajinikanth feast". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 25 February 2020. Retrieved 20 August 2020 – via www.thehindu.com.</ref> During the second half of 2019, he made his Malayalam and Telugu debuts with Maarconi Mathaai and Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy, respectively.<ref>"I'm playing myself in Jayaram's Marconi Mathai: Vijay Sethupathi". Cinema Express. 16 April 2019. Archived from the original on 11 October 2020. Retrieved 20 August 2020.</ref><ref>Subramanian, Anupama (12 December 2018). "Vijay Sethupathi's looks from 'Sye Raa' leaked". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 9 June 2019. Retrieved 20 August 2020.</ref>

In 2019, Film Companion ranked Sethupathi's performance in Aandavan Kattalai and Super Deluxe among the 100 Greatest Performances of the Decade.<ref>"100 Greatest Performances of the Decade". 100 Greatest Performances of the Decade. Archived from the original on 19 December 2019. Retrieved 26 November 2019.</ref> His performance in the latter won him the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor. In 2020, he starred in Ka Pae Ranasingam starring Aishwarya Rajesh.<ref>"Ka Pae Ranasingam review: Aishwarya Rajesh shines in this biting political drama". 3 October 2020. Archived from the original on 5 October 2020. Retrieved 3 October 2020.</ref> In October 2020, it was announced that Sethupathi would play the lead role of Sri Lankan cricketer Muttiah Muralitharan in the biopic titled 800. Sethupathi later announced that he was opting out of the film on Muralitharan's request after political controversy regarding the role.<ref>Scroll Staff (19 October 2020). "Actor Vijay Sethupathi opts out of Muthiah Muralitharan's biopic '800' on cricketer's request". Scroll.in. Archived from the original on 7 November 2020. Retrieved 9 November 2020.</ref>

In 2021, Sethupathi appeared in Lokesh Kanagaraj's film Master alongside Vijay. He then appeared in the Telugu film Uppena, which was written and directed by Bucchi Babu Sana.<ref>"Uppena movie trailer: Vijay Sethupathi turns evil again". The Indian Express. 5 February 2021. Archived from the original on 5 February 2021. Retrieved 6 February 2021.</ref> After Uppena, Sethupathi appeared in three films in the month of September in 2021, Laabam, Tughlaq Durbar and Annabelle Sethupathi.<ref>"Three releases for Vijay Sethupathi in September!". Sify. Archived from the original on 30 August 2021.</ref> He appeared in Mughizh in which his daughter makes her debut.<ref>"Watch: Vijay Sethupathi shares trailer of daughter Sreeja's debut in 'Mugizh'". The News Minute. 2 January 2021. Archived from the original on 18 May 2021. Retrieved 14 October 2021.</ref> Sethupathi also starred in Vetrimaaran's Tamil film Viduthalai Part 1.<ref>"Vetri Maaran's next film with Soori and Vijay Sethupathi titled 'Viduthalai'". The Hindu. 22 April 2021. Archived from the original on 28 April 2021. Retrieved 22 April 2021.</ref>

As of October 2021 he is the host of MasterChef India – Tamil, which started on 7 August 2021 on Sun TV Network.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi set to host MasterChef Tamil". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 20 October 2021. Retrieved 20 October 2021.</ref>

In 2022, Vijay Sethupathi appeared in the drama film Kadaisi Vivasayi directed by M. Manikandan.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi's screen presence in 'Kadaisi Vivasayi' revealed". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 2 January 2023. Retrieved 2 January 2023.</ref> Following, the romantic comedy Vignesh Shivan's Kaathuvaakula Rendu Kaadhal with Nayanthara and Samantha.<ref>"Kaathuvaakula Rendu Kaadhal Movie Review : This romcom with a dream combo manages to entertain only in parts". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 28 April 2022. Retrieved 1 January 2023.</ref> After Master, Vijay Sethupathi again got a villain role in Lokesh Kanagaraj directorial Vikram starring Kamal Haasan in the lead role. Vijay Sethupathi played a drug dealer.<ref>"'Sundarapandian' to 'Vikram': Times when Vijay Sethupathi played antagonist on screen". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 1 January 2023. Retrieved 1 January 2023.</ref> Vikram broke several box office records and officially became one of the highest grossing films in Tamil Nadu.<ref>"Kamal Haasan, Vijay Sethupathi and Fahadh Faasil's Vikram to release on OTT". 29 June 2022. Archived from the original on 1 January 2023. Retrieved 1 January 2023.</ref> Vijay Sethupathi and his mentor Seenu Ramasamy worked together for the fourth time on the family emotion-packed Maamanithan.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi's 'Maamanithan' shooting wrapped". The Times of India. 12 February 2019. Archived from the original on 2 June 2021. Retrieved 29 May 2021.</ref> Vijay Sethupathi acted in Malayalam movie 19(1)(a) starring with Nithya Menen and was released by streaming platform Disney+ Hotstar.<ref>"19(1)(a) teaser: Vijay Sethupathi and Nithya Menen star in this quietly intriguing film about freedom of speech". 19 July 2022. Archived from the original on 1 January 2023. Retrieved 1 January 2023.</ref> In December, his action comedy DSP was released to negative reviews.<ref>"DSP movie review: Vijay Sethupathi's latest is as generic as it can get". 2 December 2022. Archived from the original on 9 December 2022. Retrieved 1 January 2023.</ref> In 2023, Vijay Sethupathi appeared in Jawan starring Shah Rukh Khan and Nayanthara in the lead role. Sethupathi played as an arms dealer, which was significantly praised by critics and the audience.<ref>"Nayanthara attends the 'Jawan' screening with Atlee and Vignesh Shivan in Mumbai". The Times of India. 8 September 2023. Vijay Sethupathi has also been critically acclaimed for playing the role of the antagonist</ref> Vijay Sethupathi joined hands with director Kishor Pandurang Belekar for a silent film titled Gandhi Talks.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi gives an update on his long-awaited 'Gandhi Talks' on Gandhi Jayanti". The Times of India. 2 October 2024.</ref> The next, was the Hindi and Tamil bilingual film, Merry Christmas (2024) directed by Sriram Raghavan. Starring the charismatic duo of Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi, the film failed to charm audiences at the box office despite its star power and critical acclaim.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi's Merry Christmas OTT Release Date Confirmed". 23 February 2024.</ref> Then, Vijay Sethupathi has hit a majestic milestone with his fiftieth film Maharaja (2024). The film, featuring a gripping narrative about a barber's quest, was a critical and commercial success internationally, especially in China. Sethupathi described it as a comeback after challenging years, underscoring its personal significance.<ref>"From career low to global triumph: Vijay Sethupathi opens up about Maharaja's unforgettable success". The Times of India. 16 March 2025.</ref> Followed by the film, Viduthalai Part 2 (2024), with the Part 1, was screened at the International Film Festival Rotterdam.<ref>"Viduthalai Part 2 OTT release: When and where to watch Vijay Sethupathi's film". 19 January 2025.</ref> In 2025, Ace and Thalaivan Thalaivii were released.<ref>Chandar, Bhuvanesh (23 May 2025). "'Ace' movie review: Vijay Sethupathi, Yogi Babu cannot save this middling comedy-thriller". The Hindu.</ref><ref>Chandar, Bhuvanesh (25 July 2025). "'Thalaivan Thalaivii' movie review: Vijay Sethupathi, Nithya Menen anchor Pandiraaj's hilarious but problematic entertainer". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 26 July 2025.</ref>

Philanthropy

In 2014, Chennai Mayopathy Institute of Muscular Dystrophy and Research Center organized a rally on 3 August at Marina Beach to raise awareness on Muscular Dystrophy. Sethupathi has taken part in the rally along with actresses Gayathrie and Varalaxmi Sarathkumar.<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi, Gayathri and Varalakshmi at Mayo Rally for Muscular Dystrophy Awareness". Glofocus. 4 August 2014. Archived from the original on 23 January 2015. Retrieved 23 January 2015.</ref> Sethupathi met Chief minister of Tamil Nadu M.K Stalin on 15 June 2021 and donated ₹25 lakhs as part of the Corona relief fund.<ref>Tamil, Hindu (15 June 2021). "முதல்வர் ஸ்டாலினுடன் விஜய் சேதுபதி சந்திப்பு: கரோனா நிவாரண நிதி வழங்கினார்". Hindu Tamil Thisai (in தமிழ்). Archived from the original on 24 June 2021. Retrieved 16 June 2021.</ref>

Personal life

Sethupathi has three siblings, one elder brother, one younger brother and one younger sister.<ref name="thehindu4"/> He returned from Dubai in 2003 to marry his girlfriend, Jessie, whom he had met and dated online.<ref name="thehindu4"/> They have two children.<ref>Subha J. Rao (18 June 2013). "Hits, no misses". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 12 July 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.</ref>

Public image

Sethupathi's performance in Aandavan Kattalai and Super Deluxe is regarded as one of the "100 Greatest Performances of the Decade" by Film Companion.<ref>"100 Greatest Performances of the Decade". Film Companion. Archived from the original on 19 December 2019. Retrieved 14 November 2020.</ref> He was named the "Top Tamil Actor", by Rediff.com in 2013, 2016 and 2017.<ref>"Top Performances by Tamil Actors in 2013". Rediff.com. 31 December 2013. Retrieved 25 November 2021.</ref><ref>"The TOP 5 Tamil Actors". Rediff.com. 7 January 2016. Retrieved 23 September 2022.</ref><ref>"Meet the TOP FIVE Tamil actors". Rediff.com. 4 January 2017. Retrieved 23 September 2022.</ref>

In 2020, Vijay Sethupathi was set to portray the role of&nbsp;Sri Lankan&nbsp;cricketer&nbsp;Muttiah Muralitharan&nbsp;in a biopic titled 800. The controversy surrounding Vijay Sethupathi's role in a biopic about Muttiah Muralitharan stemmed from the cricketer's support for the Sri Lankan Government and his political statements. Muralitharan, of Tamil descent, played cricket during the Eelam War, leading to debates within the Tamil community. Supporters of the film argued for recognizing Muralitharan's cricketing achievements.<ref>"Movies | Sections |". Silverscreen India. 19 October 2020. Retrieved 20 July 2023.</ref> The role eventually went to Madhur Mittal.

Filmography

Main article: Vijay Sethupathi filmography

Discography

Vijay Sethupathi discography

Year	Film	Songs	Notes	Ref.
2015	Orange Mittai	"Orae Oru Oorla", "Straight Ah Poyee"		<ref name="OMNews18" /><br /><ref name="VJSHindu"/>
2016	Hello Naan Pei Pesuren	"Majja Malcha"		<ref>Subramanian, Anupama (2 April 2016). "Hello Naan Pei Pesuren movie review: Bhaskar's sole intention is to make us laugh". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 16 June 2018. Retrieved 16 June 2018.</ref><br /><ref>"Hello Naan Pei Pesuren". Gaana.com. Archived from the original on 16 June 2018. Retrieved 16 June 2018.</ref>
	Atti	"Atti Atti"		<ref>"Listen to Atti Atti Song by Vijay Sethupathi on Gaana.com". Archived from the original on 15 January 2021. Retrieved 28 September 2020 – via gaana.com.</ref>
2018	Peipasi	"Naan Appatakkar"	Unreleased film	<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi sings for Yuvan Shankar Raja in 'Pei Pasi'". India Today. 1 March 2018. Archived from the original on 11 February 2025. Retrieved 3 August 2024.</ref>
2019	Ispade Rajavum Idhaya Raniyum	"Yei Kadavule"		<ref>Subramanian, Anupama (5 December 2018). "Vijay Sethupathi croons a Siddhar song in chaste Tamil". Deccan Chronicle. Archived from the original on 21 December 2018. Retrieved 21 December 2018.</ref>
	Dear Comrade	"Comrade Anthem"	Tamil dubbed version	<ref>"Vijay Sethupathi's 'Dear Comrade' Tamil Anthem Song Trends". 23 July 2019. Archived from the original on 20 March 2020. Retrieved 20 March 2020.</ref>
	Devarattam	"Madurai Palapalakkuthu"		<ref>"Tamil actors who turned singers in the last decade". The Times of India. 14 April 2021. Archived from the original on 14 September 2021. Retrieved 13 September 2021.</ref>
2024	Andhagan	"The Andhagan Anthem"		<ref>"Andhagan: Vijay Sethupathi, Anirudh sing for actor Prashanth!". MovieCrow.</ref>

Accolades

Awards and nominations Award Wins Nominations Filmfare Awards South 2 2 Vijay Awards 3 5 SIIMA 1 3 Tamil Nadu State Film Awards 2 N/A Asiavision Awards 1 1 National Film Awards 1 N/A Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards 2 1
Totals
Note

Year	Award	Category	Film	Result	Ref.
2012	Tamil Nadu State Film Awards	Best Villain	Sundarapandian	Won	<ref>"Tamil Nadu announces the State Film Awards for six consecutive years in surprise move. Here's the complete list of winners". 14 July 2017. Archived from the original on 31 October 2018. Retrieved 31 October 2018.</ref>
	Norway Tamil Film Festival Awards	Best Actor	Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom	Won	<ref>"Norway Tamil Film Festival 2013". Sify. 29 April 2013. Archived from the original on 15 June 2018. Retrieved 15 June 2018.</ref>
	Edison Awards (India)	Best Male Rising Star		Won	<ref>"Edison Awards for 2013 Tamil Winners List". ILuvCinema. 18 February 2013. Archived from the original on 15 June 2018. Retrieved 15 June 2018.</ref>
	7th Vijay Awards	Best Actor (Special Jury Award)		Won	<ref>"Vijay Awards 2013 Complete Winners List". KollyInsider. 12 May 2013. Archived from the original on 15 June 2018. Retrieved 15 June 2018.</ref>
		Best Actor		Nominated
	SIIMA Awards	Best Actor (Critics)	Pizza	Won	<ref>"SIIMA 2013 Winners List". ibtimes. 15 September 2013. Archived from the original on 6 January 2019. Retrieved 15 June 2018.</ref>
	Big FM Tamil Entertainment Awards	BIG FM Most Entertaining Actor of the Year		Won	<ref>"The BIG Tamil Entertainment Awards". Indian News & Times. 16 February 2013. Archived from the original on 12 January 2015. Retrieved 15 June 2018.</ref>
	60th Filmfare Awards South	Best Actor		Nominated
	Chennai Times Film Awards 2012	Best Actor	Pizza & Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom	Nominated	<ref>"Chennai Times Film Awards 2012 nominations". The Times of India. 6 July 2013. Archived from the original on 29 September 2017. Retrieved 15 June 2018.</ref>
2013	8th Vijay Awards	Best Actor (Special Jury Award)	Soodhu Kavvum	Won	<ref>"8th Vijay Awards (2014) Winners list". FilmiBeat. 11 July 2014. Archived from the original on 15 June 2018. Retrieved 15 June 2018.</ref>
		Best Actor		Nominated
2014	SIIMA Awards		Pannaiyarum Padminiyum	Nominated
2015			Orange Mittai	Nominated
2016	Norway Tamil Film Festival Awards		Dharma Durai	Won	<ref>"Norway Tamil Film Festival: Complete list of winners". Times of India. 7 March 2017. Archived from the original on 4 November 2017. Retrieved 15 June 2018.</ref>
	Asiavision Awards			Won
2017	Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards	Best Villain - Male	Vikram Vedha	Won	<ref name="timesnownews.com">Vijay, Nayanthara, Bigg Boss Tamil win big at Vikatan Awards 2018 – here's the list of winners Archived 15 June 2018 at the Wayback Machine. timesnownews.com (11 January 2018)</ref>
	Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil	Best Actor		Won	<ref name="timesnownews.com"/>
	Vijay Award for Best Actor			Won
2019	Indian Film Festival of Melbourne		Super Deluxe	Won	<ref>"'Super Deluxe' competes with the likes of 'Andhadhun' and 'Gully Boy' at Australian film festival". The Hindu. 17 July 2019. Archived from the original on 30 July 2022. Retrieved 30 July 2022.</ref>
	67th National Film Awards	Best Supporting Actor		Won
	8th South Indian International Movie Awards	Best Actor	'96	Nominated
	Filmfare Awards South			Won
2021	South Indian International Movie Awards		Super Deluxe	Nominated
		Best Supporting Actor	Ka Pae Ranasingam	Nominated
2020	Zee Cinema Awards - Tamil	Best Actor	Super Deluxe	Nominated
		Favourite Hero		Nominated
	JFW Awards	JFW Award - Special Mention		Won
	Critics Choice Film Awards - Tamil	Best Actor		Won
	Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards			Nominated
	Edison Awards			Nominated
	Norway Tamil Movie Awards			Nominated
2022
	10th South Indian International Movie Awards	Best Actor in a Negative Role (Tamil)	Master	Nominated	<ref name=":1">"SIIMA 2022: Check full list of winners". Deccan Herald. 19 September 2022. Archived from the original on 22 September 2022. Retrieved 24 December 2022.</ref>
		Best Actor in a Negative Role – Telugu	Uppena	Nominated	<ref name=":1"/>
2025	Ananda Vikatan Cinema Awards	Best Actor	Maharaja & Viduthalai Part 2	Won	<ref>"Ananda Vikatan announces 2024 edition of Vikatan Cinema Awards".</ref>

External links

• Vijay Sethupathi on IMDb
• Vijay Sethupathi at Rotten Tomatoes
• Official website