'Merry Christmas' Star, Rajesh Passes Away At The Age Of 75, Had Worked In Over 150 Films

Rajesh Williams is among the well-known actors in Tamil and Malayalam films and serials. The actor had a memorable run of 50 years under his belt, in which he appeared in more than 150 films. However, he was not just known as a hero but also as a character actor, who was known for playing unusual and interesting side roles.

Rajesh passed away at the age of 75  

Rajesh had a prolific career; he was among some of the best-known actors in the industry, making his demise even more saddening for his fans and loved ones. The actor passed away at the age of 75, in Chennai. His contributions to regional cinema remain part of his legacy, as his work spans a significant period of South Indian film history.

Despite being a well-known figure, Rajesh led a simple life, keeping his personal life away from the limelight. It was for the same reason that despite the speculations of his ill health circulating for a while, there were no updates or details about the same. While fans are absolutely heartbroken, there has not been any further information about his funeral arrangements, and the family statements have yet to be released.

Rajesh Williams' journey in the film industry

Rajesh began his acting in 1974 with the film, Aval Oru Thodar Kathai. The drama film not only marked his debut in the industry but also introduced Sujatha to the Tamil film industry. However, it was his 1981 film, Andha 7 Naatkal, which further gained him recognition as it showcased his acting abilities early in his career. Over the years, he continued to be a familiar face on screen, adapting to different character types. Some of his early works were Thanikattu Raja, Sirai, Mel Maruvathoor Arpudhangal, Naanayam Illatha Naanayam, Sirayil Pootha Chinna Malar and Nalla Kaalam Porandaachu.

In the past decades, he became popular for the films, Gethu, Jannal Oram, Doo and Kathar Basha Endra Muthuramalingam, among others. His last appearance was in the film, Merry Christmas, starring Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi. He made his last TV appearance in the show, Karthigai Deepam as 'Dharmalingam'.

Rajesh Williams was the first Tamil actor to build a bungalow for shooting

Incredibly dedicated to his art of acting, Rajesh was the first Tamil actor who built a bungalow in 1985 near KK Nagar for the sole purpose of shooting. The studio was inaugurated by then-Chief Minister, M.G. Ramachandran. However, after shooting several Tamil, Malayalam and Hindi films, he later sold the bungalow in 1993 while starting his real estate business as advised by his friend, Jeppiaar. He also dabbled in hotel and construction business. Later, joining politics as a supporter of Janaki from 1987 to 1991. Rajesh also wrote briographies of Hollywood actors in Tamil and accounts about Astrology.  

Rajesh Williams' family life

Rajesh was born in 1949 to Williams Nattar and Lily Grace in Mankondar at Mannargudi, Tiruvarur. He completed his pre-university course at Karaikudi Alagappa College but dropped out of Pachaiappas College before completing his college education. He worked as a teacher before entering the acting world. He married Joan Sylvia Vanathirayar in 1983 and welcomed a daughter, Divya and a son, Deepak, with her. Unfortunately, Joan passed away on August 6, 2012. 

Team BollywoodShaadis extend our heartfelt condolences to Rajesh Williams' family.

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