'April Maadhathil' director SS Stanley passes away: Kollywood mourns the loss

Director and actor S.S. Stanley, known for his contributions to Tamil cinema, passed away today (Apr 15) due to health complications. According to News 18, he was undergoing treatment for kidney-related issues over the past few years. It is reported that actor Dhanush had been providing him with medical assistance during this difficult time. Stanley’s death has left the film industry in shock, with condolences pouring in from various members of the film fraternity.
A promising start behind the camera
Stanley made his directorial debut in 2002 with 'April Maadhathil', a romantic drama starring Srikanth and Sneha. The film’s success paved the way for more projects. He later directed 'Pudhukottaiyilirundhu Saravanan' featuring Dhanush, which became one of his notable works. His other directorial ventures included 'Mercury Pookkal' and 'Kizhakku Kadarkarai Salai', both of which showcased his flair for storytelling and emotional narratives.
From director’s chair to the spotlight
After a series of films as a director, Stanley gradually shifted his focus towards acting. He earned acclaim for his portrayal of Arignar Anna in the 2007 biographical film 'Periyar', directed by Gnana Rajasekaran. His performance was praised for its depth and authenticity. He went on to appear in supporting roles in several films such as 'Raavanan', 'Aandavan Kattalai', 'Sarkar', and 'Bommai Nayagi'. His final screen appearance was in the critically acclaimed film 'Maharaja' featuring Vijay Sethupathi in the lead role.
Industry pays tribute to a versatile talent
S.S. Stanley’s demise has saddened fans and colleagues alike. He was a multi-talented artist who contributed significantly to both filmmaking and acting. His final rites are scheduled to take place this evening at the Valasaravakkam electric crematorium. As the industry bids farewell to a creative soul, his work continues to live on through the films he directed and acted in, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered.