Hubbry Logo
CharleCharleMain
Open search
Charle
Community hub
Charle
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Charle
Charle
Charle
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Velmurugan Thangasamy Manohar (born 6 March 1960), professionally credited as Charle (/tʃɑːrli/), is an Indian actor who works in Tamil cinema.[2] He has acted in more than 800 Tamil films as a comedian and supporting actor. Charle was named after the English actor Charlie Chaplin.[3]

Key Information

Biography

[edit]

Charle completed his degree in chemistry from G. V. N. College in Kovilpatti, Tamil Nadu. During his college days, he was known for histrionics and his uncanny ability to imitate Tamil actors like Sivaji Ganesan, Muthuraman and Nagesh. He is an entertainer, and a stage artist, and started his career as a Staff Artist – Actor in Song & Drama Division of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and moved on to perform more than 1000 dramas in six years. He was named Charle and got introduced in the film Poikkal Kudhirai in the year 1982 by the director K. Balachander.[4] He proved to be an actor in comedy as well as character roles. He has more than 800 films to his credit and has played a vital role in many films, including films produced by National Film Development Corporation of India. He is highly talented in miming, mono acting and anchoring in stage shows and has performed in various countries.

Charle holds a Master of Arts degree from Madurai Kamaraj University and Master of Philosophy degree from Karaikkudi Alagappa University. He submitted his dissertation for M.Phil. in the title, "Contributions of Comedians in the growth of Tamil cinema – 1937 to 1967".[5][6]

Charle received his Ph.D. in Tamil in the topic "Humour in Tamil Cinema" from Tamil University, Thanjavur in October 2019. His guide was Professor K Ravindran, former Head of the Drama department, Tamil University.[7]

Awards

[edit]
  • Tamil Nadu State Government Award
  • Film Fans Association, Chennai
    • Best Comedian Award – 1994– 2 times
    • Best Character Artiste Award – 1996
  • Bharath Social & Cultural Academy, Chennai
    • Best Comedian Award – 1998, 1999, 2000 & 2001– 4 times
  • Kalaimamani Award 2004
  • Kalaichchigaram Award 2018

Partial filmography

[edit]

Tamil films

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes and Ref.
1982 Lottery Ticket
1983 Anney Anney Faffu
Poikkal Kudhirai Paramasivam
1984 Achamillai Achamillai Patchi (Petchiappan)
Enakkul Oruvan Madan's friend
Poovilangu
Pudhiavan Guest appearance
1985 Bandham Abdul
Kalyana Agathigal
Ilam Kandru
Janani
Naam Iruvar Samipillai
Thiramai
1986 Odangal
Pudhiya Poovidhu
Vidinja Kalyanam
Yaaro Ezhuthiya Kavithai Doctor
Uyire Unakkaga Murugesan Mudeliyar's assistant
Thazhuvatha Kaigal
Sigappu Malargal
Punnagai Mannan
Natpu
Mella Thirandhathu Kadhavu Subramani's friend
Dharma Pathini MLA Palayam
Cinema Cinema
Aayiram Pookkal Malarattum
Kodai Mazhai
1987 Aankalai Nambathey
Arul Tharum Ayyappan
Ivaloru Pournami
Thulasi Khan
Thangachi KD
Ondru Engal Jathiye
Vanna Kanavugal
Solvathellam Unmai Caregiver Psychiatrist
Megam Karuththirukku
Manathil Uruthi Vendum Patient Guest appearance
Poovizhi Vasalile Guest appearance
Michael Raj
Jallikattu Arjun's friend
Ananda Aradhanai
1988 Solla Thudikuthu Manasu Ramankutty
Ullathil Nalla Ullam Gnanavel
Kai Naattu
Thambi Thanga Kambi Madhu
Naan Sonnathey Sattam Sappani
Nallavan Raja's friend
Senthoora Poove Pacchi
Unnal Mudiyum Thambi
Dharmathin Thalaivan Mani
Thai Paasam
Manamagale Vaa
Uzhaithu Vaazha Vendum Chellappa
Puthiya Vaanam
1989 Valadhu Kalai Vaithu Vaa
Thangamani Rangamani Kannayeeram
Yogam Raja Yogam
Dharma Devan
En Thangai
Idhaya Dheepam
Annanukku Jai
Pudhu Pudhu Arthangal Diwakar
Sonthakkaran Resident of Bharath Nagar
Varusham 16 Narayana
Ore Oru Gramathiley
Thangamani Rangamani
Nyaya Tharasu Bose
Manidhan Marivittan
Siva
Uthama Purushan Sethu
1990 Raja Kaiya Vacha Guest appearance
Pudhu Vasantham Manohar
En Uyir Thozhan Pangu
Idhaya Thamarai Drunkard
Sirayil Pootha Chinna Malar
Pattanathil Petti
Sakthi Parasakthi
Keladi Kannmanii Sasi's friend
Oru Veedu Iru Vasal Elango
Unnai Solli Kutramillai Durai
Ulagam Pirandhadhu Enakkaga
Jagathalaprathapan Sri
Pudhu Pudhu Ragangal
Vaigasi Poranthachu Teacher
Mounam Sammadham Mani
Manaivi Oru Manickam
Pengal Veettin Kangal
Anjali Police officer
Amma Pillai
60 Naal 60 Nimidam
Pudhu Padagan
Inaindha Kaigal Singer Guest appearance
1991 Vasanthakala Paravai Ravi's friend
Gnana Paravai Kanni
Chithirai Pookkal
Pondatti Sonna Kettukanum
Ponnukku Sethi Vanthachu
MGR Nagaril Anand
Sir... I Love You
Gopura Vasalile Manohar's friend
Thalapathi Mani
Azhagan Television Anchor
Sigaram Madhavan
1992 Devar Veettu Ponnu
Nadodi Pattukkaran Seedan
Brahmachari Panchavarnam
Mudhal Kural
Vaaname Ellai Sabu
Kaviya Thalaivan Guest appearance
Chinna Pasanga Naanga Manikkam
Endrum Anbudan Munsamy
Onna Irukka Kathukanum Issaki
Kasu Thangakasu
Oor Panchayathu
Uyiril Oru Raagam
Singaravelan Flute Ramasamy
Kaaval Geetham David
1993 Uzhaippali Tamilarasan's friend
Uthama Raasa Chinnaiya's servant
Thangakkili
Mutrugai Mani
Maamiyar Veedu
Pudhupiravi
Pudhiya Thendral
Purusha Lakshanam Rajesh
Parvathi Ennai Paradi Pattinathar
Kilipetchu Ketkavaa Villager
Karpagam Vanthachu Madhavan
Karuppu Vellai
Jaathi Malli Udhagai Murugan
En Idhaya Rani
Vedan
Dasarathan
Chinna Kannamma Pichandi
Amaravathi Seethapathy
Airport
1994 Ulavaali
Veera
Veeramani Singaravelan
Vaa Magale Vaa Raman
Seevalaperi Pandi
Pudhusa Pootha Rosa
Priyanka
Thendral Varum Theru
Duet Vellaiyan
Senthamizh Selvan
Subramaniya Swamy Kunju Khader
Sakthivel
1995 Aakaya Pookkal
Anbu Magan
Oru Oorla Oru Rajakumari Madasamy
Valli Vara Pora Thangapandi
Varraar Sandiyar
Gandhi Pirantha Mann Taxi driver
Rani Maharani
Aanazhagan Sudhakar
1996 Poove Unakkaga Gopi
Thuraimugam Jana
Karuppu Roja
Pudhu Nilavu
Nattupura Pattu
Kizhakku Mugam Mukka
Karuvelam Pookkal Mariappan
Gopala Gopala Chettiar
Summa Irunga Machan Sigamani
Andha Naal Vincent Babu's friend
Namma Ooru Raasa
1997 Kaalamellam Kaathiruppen Kannan's friend
Kaalamellam Kadhal Vaazhga Perumal
Pongalo Pongal Arumugam
Pathini
Pagaivan
Kathirunda Kadhal Pavadai
Raman Abdullah
Ettupatti Rasa Mokkaiyan
Once More Kesavan Nair
Adimai Changili
Adhibathi
Kadhalukku Mariyadhai Kesavan
1998 Ponmanam
Velai
Ninaithen Vandhai Gokul's brother-in-law
Unnudan Azhagu Sundaram
Nilaave Vaa Kilipas
Thayin Manikodi
Ellame En Pondattithaan Peter
Pudhumai Pithan
Pooveli Chidambaram Brother's Brother-in-law
Thanga Magal
Kaadhal Kavithai Anandham
1999 Amarkkalam Joe Thomas
Time Chittappa
Aasaiyil Oru Kaditham Servant
Hello Chandru's friend
Sangamam Shanmugam
Endrendrum Kadhal Sabapathi
Suryodayam Nambi
Kannupada Poguthaiya Chinna
Kanave Kalayadhe Paneer
Sundari Neeyum Sundaran Naanum
2000 Kannukkul Nilavu Surya
Unnai Kodu Ennai Tharuven Surya's friend
Vetri Kodi Kattu Pazhani
Parthen Rasithen Sophraj
Karuvelam Pookkal Mariappan
Thenali Kanthaswamy
Anbudan Sathya's friend
Ennavalle Ganeshan
Kadhal Rojavae Nixon
2001 Friends Gopal
Piriyadha Varam Vendum Sanjay's friend
Pandavar Bhoomi
Alli Arjuna Oomadurai
Veettoda Mappillai Ganga
Chocklet Sasi
Kasi Sodala
2002 Saptham Kothandam
Thamizh Ammavasai
Thenkasi Pattanam S. K. Velu
Nanba Nanba Joseph
Ezhumalai Ezhumalai's assistant
Unnai Ninaithu Mei Meiyappan
Red Kaipulla
Gemini Chinna Salem
Junior Senior
Pammal K. Sambandam Sambandam's lawyer
Naina Pazhani
En Mana Vaanil Paramasivam
2003 Kadhaludan
Sena Pandian
Banda Paramasivam Nokia
Alaudin Chinnasamy's assistant
Jay Jay MLA Sattamuthu
Punnagai Poove Sudhakar
2004 Kovil Boothapandi
Jananam Ganesh
Ramakrishna Pavalakodi's brother
2005 Ayya Muthuvel
Girivalam Pavadai
Anniyan Wastrel
Mazhai Director
Oru Kalluriyin Kathai Lecturer Azhagusundaram
2006 Nenjirukkum Varai Singamuthu
Thiruttu Payale Watchman
2007 Vel Moorthy
Thirumagan Ondipuli
2008 Sadhu Miranda
Velli Thirai Assistant Director Santhanam
2009 Ananda Thandavam
Enga Raasi Nalla Raasi Bala
Mathiya Chennai
2011 Avargalum Ivargalum Catering contractor
Venghai Murugesan
Unnil Tholaindhein
2012 Vilayada Vaa Doctor
Ishtam Watchman
2013 Neram Mayilsamy
Desingu Raja
2014 Angusam
Damaal Dumeel Selvam
Jeeva Arul Pragasam
2015 Papanasam Kannan
Idhu Enna Maayam father of Arun's friend
Thakka Thakka Indhu's father
Kirumi Prabhakar
Urumeen Siva Lingam
2016 Aarathu Sinam Arokiya Raj
24 Reddiyar
Oru Naal Koothu Benjamin
Enakku Innoru Per Irukku Subbiah
2017 Yaman Thiagarajan
Maanagaram Taxi driver
Paambhu Sattai Kannan
Kadhal Kasakuthaiya Diya's father
Oru Kanavu Pola
Velaikkaran Murugesan
2018 Kannakkol
Pattinapakkam Bhai
2019 Vellai Pookal Bharatidasan
Bodhai Yeri Budhi Maari Constable
Gurkha Usain Bolt
Mei Narmadha's father
Dhanusu Raasi Neyargale Ramasamy
2020 Pizhai Sockalingam
Walter Paneerselvam
2021 Theerpugal Virkapadum Dr. Parthiban
2022 Drama Moorthy
Aattral Arjun's father
Udanpaal Vinayagam
2023 Kondraal Paavam Karuppusamy
D3 Mani
Erumbu Annadurai
Iraivan Dr. Yoganand
Joe College Security Guard
2024 Arimapatti Sakthivel Kuzhandhaivel
Finder Project 1 Peter
Rooban
Lineman Subbayya
2025 Aghathiyaa Aghathiyan's father
Yaman Kattalai
Bun Butter Jam Kumar Senthamizhan
Coolie Ravi
Mask Sargunam "Guna"
2026 Lockdown

Other language films

[edit]
Year Title Role Language Notes and Ref.
1989 Indrudu Chandrudu Mental Patient Telugu
1995 Hijack Sulochanan a.k.a. Sulu Malayalam
2010 Sandadi Pavan's friend Telugu
Cheriya Kallanum Valiya Policeum Kurukkuvatti Duraichamy Malayalam
2022 Bro Daddy Venkayya
2023 Philip's Senthil [8]
Television

Dubbing artist

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Charle

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Velmurugan Thangasamy Manohar (born 6 March 1960), professionally known as Charle, is an Indian who predominantly works in as a and supporting performer. He has appeared in over 800 Tamil films, establishing himself as a versatile character artist renowned for his timing in comic roles and nuanced portrayals in ensemble casts. Charle was born in , , and adopted his stage name from the acclaimed upon his entry into the film industry. His debut came in the 1983 comedy-drama Poikkal Kudhirai, directed by , where he played a small role that marked the beginning of his prolific career. Over the subsequent decades, Charle has collaborated with leading Tamil filmmakers and stars, delivering standout performances in notable films such as (1994), (2005), (2013), 24 (2016), and (2017). These roles often highlighted his ability to blend humor with emotional depth, contributing to the success of both mainstream entertainers and critically acclaimed projects. In addition to , Charle has earned industry accolades for his contributions, including a nomination for in a Supporting Role at the (SIIMA) for his performance in (2015). His enduring presence in underscores his adaptability across genres, from comedies to intense dramas, making him a staple in the region's film landscape.

Early Life and Education

Birth and Family Background

Velmurugan Thangasamy Manohar, professionally known as Charle, was born on 6 March 1960 in , a town in the of , . He grew up in this southern Indian locale, where the cultural milieu of fostered his initial encounters with performing arts. His stage name "Charle" draws directly from the iconic English comedian and actor . From a young age, Charle exhibited a keen interest in performance, engaging in and local theater activities that honed his skills in imitation and stage presence, setting the stage for his later professional pursuits. These childhood endeavors in shows and dramatic presentations reflected the modest yet vibrant community environment of , which nurtured his budding talent for entertainment. Charle is married to Annie Charle and has a son, Ajay Thangasamy.

Academic and Scholarly Achievements

Charle completed his undergraduate studies with a degree in chemistry at G. V. N. College in Kovilpatti, Tamil Nadu, where he first displayed an interest in performing arts through histrionics and imitations of prominent Tamil actors. He later pursued advanced education in Tamil literature and cinema, earning a Master of Arts degree from Madurai Kamaraj University and a Master of Philosophy degree from Alagappa University in Karaikudi. His M.Phil. dissertation, titled "Contributions of Comedians in the Growth of Tamil Cinema – 1937 to 1967," examined the foundational roles of early comedians in shaping the industry's narrative structures. In 2019, Charle was awarded a doctorate in Tamil from Tamil University in Thanjavur for his thesis titled "Humour in Tamil Cinema," defended under the guidance of Professor K. Ravindran, former Head of the Drama Department. The work, completed part-time alongside his acting career from 2013 to 2018, traces the evolution of humor in Tamil films from the 1930s, encompassing the silent era to contemporary productions. Charle's academic focus centered on analyzing comedic elements, including and caustic humor, alongside character archetypes exemplified by influential figures such as and , as well as unsung contributors like A. Veerappan, M. R. Krishnamurthy, and . His research highlighted how these elements drove film narratives and advanced the scholarly discourse on South Indian cinema by documenting overlooked histories of comedic traditions. The thesis was praised by the academic community for its rigorous documentation and depth, bridging practical performance with intellectual analysis.

Career

Film Debut and Early Roles

Charle made his debut in the Tamil film industry in 1982 with Lottery Ticket, directed by , where he appeared in a supporting capacity alongside leads Mohan, Suhasini, and . His breakthrough role arrived the following year in K. Balachander's Poikkal Kudhirai, in which he portrayed a pony rider, a character that highlighted his emerging talent for comedic expression and helped establish his screen presence. During the early 1980s, Charle secured supporting parts in various Tamil productions, often embodying light-hearted characters through and subtle humor. A notable example is his role in the 1986 romantic drama , directed by , where he contributed to the film's ensemble with his versatile portrayals of quirky side characters. Charle's early acting style drew heavily from Charlie Chaplin's influence, focusing on , mono-acting techniques, and distinctive mannerisms that evoked the silent-era icon's charm. By the late 1980s, he had amassed appearances in over 50 films, building a foundation in comedic support roles within . Transitioning from stage to screen posed initial challenges for Charle, including adapting his theatrical energy to the constraints of and navigating as a perpetual . His prior experience as a staff artist in the Song and Drama Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, where he performed in over 1,000 dramas, informed his nuanced approach to these early cinematic roles.

Rise as a Comedian in Tamil Cinema

Charle's breakthrough as a in occurred during the 1990s, marked by pivotal supporting roles in Mani Ratnam's Anjali (1990) and (1991), where his comic timing provided levity amid intense dramatic narratives. In Anjali, a children's drama centered on family and , Charle portrayed a friend whose humorous interactions highlighted the film's emotional depth. Similarly, in , a gangster epic inspired by the , his character added relatable to the ensemble cast led by and . By the turn of the millennium, Charle had amassed appearances in over 300 films, solidifying his reputation through such roles. His signature style emerged through the creation of quirky, relatable comic characters that drew from everyday life, often blending mimicry with situational humor to complement serious storylines. Frequent collaborations with acclaimed directors like Mani Ratnam, seen in the aforementioned films, and Kamal Haasan, notably in Thenali (2000) where he played the eccentric Kanthaswamy, allowed Charle to refine this approach. In Thenali, a psychological comedy, his portrayal of a bumbling guide amplified the film's satirical elements while supporting Haasan's lead performance. These partnerships underscored his versatility in supporting comedy, contributing to over 800 Tamil films overall by balancing levity with narrative gravity. Over time, Charle's comedy evolved from initial reliance on pure —rooted in his days imitating legends like —to more nuanced depictions of everyday humor, reflecting broader shifts in Tamil cinema's comedic landscape. This progression influenced younger comedians by emphasizing character-driven wit over excess. His work in the and thus established him as a staple in the industry, with roles that enhanced films' accessibility without overshadowing central themes.

Expansion to Other Languages and Ventures

Charle extended his comedic talents beyond into Telugu and films, showcasing his versatility in supporting roles across South Indian industries. In , he appeared in films such as Yaman (2017), where he contributed to the in this action thriller directed by . His work in Telugu projects, including Nagaram (2008), highlighted his ability to adapt humor to regional nuances, often playing quirky characters that complemented the narrative. Similarly, in , Charle featured in (2022), a directed by Prasobh Vijay, and Hijack (1995), where he provided for his own role, demonstrating his multilingual proficiency. These appearances, part of numerous non-Tamil films in his career, allowed him to collaborate with diverse casts and directors, broadening his exposure in regional markets, including recent roles in films like Philip's (2023). Prior to his film prominence, Charle built a strong foundation in stage performances, excelling in mono-acting and shows that drew from his early career as a popular stage artist. He integrated these live acts with film promotions, performing routines inspired by iconic figures to engage audiences during tours. His stage work extended internationally, with shows in various countries that emphasized and improvisation, echoing influences from , after whom he was named. This theatrical background not only honed his timing but also enabled seamless transitions between live and screen mediums. In addition to films, Charle ventured into television appearances and short films, further diversifying his portfolio. He made guest spots on Tamil TV shows, leveraging his comedic style for episodic roles that resonated with family audiences. While specific short films remain lesser-documented, his involvement in experimental projects underscored his willingness to explore concise formats. Complementing these efforts, Charle contributed to workshops, where he shared insights on humor techniques drawn from his career experiences. Through these multilingual and pursuits, Charle's work diversified his artistic reach, establishing him as a pan-South Indian entertainer whose humor transcended linguistic boundaries and fostered greater cultural connectivity across the region.

Dubbing and Voice Work

Charle has contributed to voice work in regional cinema, notably providing his own for his role in the 1995 Malayalam film Hijack, directed by G. Gopalakrishnan. This self-dubbing effort highlighted his versatility as an actor extending into audio . His involvement in voice work aligns with his broader comedic style, though specific credits beyond personal roles remain limited in documented sources.

Awards and Recognition

State and Government Honors

Charle was conferred the PhD in Tamil by , a state government institution in , in recognition of his doctoral thesis on the evolution and cultural significance of in . This academic honor underscores his contributions to preserving and analyzing comedic traditions as an integral part of Tamil cultural heritage, blending his practical experience as an with scholarly insight into comedy's role in and . The degree was awarded during the university's 12th on October 22, 2019, where presented it to Charle, highlighting the state's appreciation for his multifaceted work in promoting Tamil arts through and research. This honor reflects the government's emphasis on honoring individuals who advance the understanding of regional , particularly comedy's function in reflecting societal norms and fostering cultural continuity. Charle also received the Award from the government in 2004 for his contributions to .

Industry and Cultural Awards

Charle has received notable recognition from bodies and cultural organizations for his enduring contributions to comedy in . In 2018, he was awarded the Kalaichchigaram Award by the for lifetime achievement in comedy, highlighting his innovative approach to humorous roles that blend and relatability. The Bharath Social & Cultural Academy in presented him with the Best Comedian Award in 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2001, acknowledging his consistent excellence in comedic performances across multiple films. These honors underscore Charle's role in promoting Tamil humor globally, bridging local traditions with universal appeal through his versatile work. He received a for in a Supporting Role at the (SIIMA) for his performance in Kirumi (2015).

Notable Works and Legacy

Key Film Roles

Charle's key film roles in the and established him as a staple in , particularly through his comedic supporting performances that balanced humor with emotional nuance. His debut in major productions during this period showcased his ability to portray relatable, quirky characters, often as loyal friends or bumbling aides, contributing significantly to the films' narrative dynamics. In Anjali (1990), Charle played the role of a in the family drama directed by , delivering emotional comedy that resonated with audiences through his portrayal of a supportive figure in the neighborhood. This performance marked an early highlight in his career, blending light-hearted moments with heartfelt support. His role in (1991), also directed by , featured him as Mani, the loyal sidekick to Rajinikanth's , where his provided relief amid the film's intense themes of and , earning appreciation for authentic camaraderie. The late saw Charle solidify his comedic archetype in romantic and dramatic contexts. In (1997), he essayed the quirky friend Kesavan, whose antics added levity to the love story, helping to define his signature style of improvised humor that supported the leads without overshadowing them. Similarly, in Poove Unakaga (1996), his role as a comic contributed to the film's popularity among younger audiences, emphasizing his versatility in ensemble casts. Entering the 2000s, Charle's performances reached new heights in psycho-comedy and ensemble comedies. His standout role as in Thenali (2000), directed by , exemplified his skill in psycho-comedy, where he navigated absurd situations with precise timing and physical humor alongside , making it one of his most memorable contributions. Critics noted his as a key element in the film's success, highlighting how his character amplified the satirical elements. In (2000), he portrayed , a delusional yet endearing character whose emotional depth in comedic scenes showcased his range beyond pure , praised for blending with laughter. Other pivotal films from this era include Endrendrum Kadhal (1999), where his supporting comedy enhanced the romantic narrative; Amaravathi (1993), featuring a key comedic turn in the thriller; Gentleman (1993), as a bumbling associate; Duet (1994), contributing to the musical drama's lighter moments; Jeans (1998), in a quirky family role; Jodi (1999), as a humorous uncle figure; Friends (2001), as Kovalu, a globally recognized comic character paired with Vadivelu's antics; Star (2001), supporting the lead's journey with witty interludes; Pammal K. Sambandam (2002), in a wedding comedy setup; Run (2002), as a loyal friend; Bala (2002), adding humor to the sports drama; Pithamagan (2003), providing comic relief in the intense storyline; Ghilli (2004), as a sidekick in the action-comedy; Kovil (2004), in a heartfelt supporting role; Chandramukhi (2005), enhancing the ensemble with his timing; and Sivaji: The Boss (2007), as a comic ally. These 20+ roles, spanning over 300 films in the period, consistently featured Charle as the quirky uncle or bumbling friend, an archetype he helped popularize through natural delivery and adaptability. Charle's on-screen presence was lauded for its improvisational flair and impeccable timing, which often elevated scenes and made his characters unforgettable, as seen in the enduring popularity of his Friends portrayal. This reception underscored his impact in defining comedic support in Tamil cinema during the era.

Recent Projects and Impact

In the 2010s and continuing into the 2020s, Charle maintained a steady presence in Tamil cinema, transitioning toward roles that blended his signature comedy with more advisory or mentor-like characterizations. Notable among these was his supporting turn in the 2016 sci-fi action film 24, directed by Vikram Kumar, where he provided comic relief in a narrative centered on time manipulation. He followed this with a pivotal comedic role as a cab driver in Lokesh Kanagaraj's 2017 ensemble thriller Maanagaram, injecting humor into the film's interconnected tales of urban tension. This evolution culminated in his appearance in the 2025 action drama Coolie, also directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, where Charle portrayed Ravi, a mentor figure offering witty guidance amid the story's high-octane conflicts involving Rajinikanth's protagonist. Additionally, in 2025, he appeared in films such as Mask and Aghathiyaa, further showcasing his versatility in contemporary Tamil productions. Charle's contributions have extended beyond traditional cinema into , reflecting the industry's shift toward OTT platforms. In , he starred as the lead in the direct-to-OTT social drama Lineman, a inspired by real-life that explores the struggles of electricity linemen in rural . He has also featured in comedy specials that revisit his classic style, maintaining his relevance in an era dominated by streaming content. By 2025, Charle's had surpassed 800 Tamil movies, a testament to his enduring versatility as a and . Charle's impact on Tamil comedy endures through his influence on younger performers like Santhanam, who have emulated his knack for layered, character-driven humor in mainstream films. His career has played a key role in steering Tamil comedic traditions toward greater , often using wit to critique societal norms—a theme he analyzed deeply in his PhD thesis on in , awarded by in 2019. This approach has helped transform from pure into a medium for responsible laughter that addresses real-world issues, solidifying Charle's legacy as a pioneer in the genre's maturation.

References

  1. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1706602/
  2. https://tv.apple.com/us/person/charle/umc.cpc.2senhi84rdbbuvxzbqbv93pb7
  3. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0155024/
  4. https://in.bookmyshow.com/person/charle/27354
  5. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/544888-charle?language=en-US
  6. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1706602/awards/
  7. https://www.filmibeat.com/celebs/charle.html
  8. https://filmyfocus.com/celebs/charle
  9. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know/comedian-charle-was-named-after-legendary-charlie-chaplin/articleshow/63354294.cms
  10. https://way2ott.com/charlie/
  11. https://www.news18.com/movies/actor-charles-son-ajay-thangasamy-gets-married-mk-stalin-kamal-haasan-grace-the-occasion-8931408.html
  12. https://flixpatrol.com/person/charle/
  13. https://entertainment.ie/person/charle
  14. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2019/Oct/22/popular-tamil-comedian-charle-receives-phd-for-thesis-on-humour-2051601.html
  15. https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Tiruchirapalli/charles-academic-peek-into-comedy/article29781617.ece
  16. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0155068/
  17. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know/actor-charlie-began-his-career-as-a-staff-artist/articleshow/68753348.cms
  18. https://www.filmibeat.com/tamil/news/2023/charlie-birthday-legendary-tamil-comedian-who-performed-versatile-characters-in-more-than-800-films-348575.html
  19. https://in.bookmyshow.com/person/charle/27354/filmography
  20. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/544888-charle
  21. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0355533/
  22. https://www.ottplay.com/news/lineman-out-on-ott-watch-this-tamil-social-drama-exclusively-on-this-platform-now/7a4c118639347
  23. https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2024/Mar/30/a-legacy-of-responsible-laughter
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.