Telugu Actor Fish Venkat Dies at 53 After Kidney Failure Battle
Telugu actor Fish Venkat dies at 53, marking a tragic end to one of Tollywood’s most recognizable faces in comedy and villainy. Born Venkat Raj, he rose from humble beginnings to act in more than 100 Telugu films. His death on July 18 shocked the Telugu film industry and fans, many of whom remembered him for his comic timing, Telangana slang, and memorable side roles in blockbusters like Dhee, Adhurs, and DJ Tillu.
Fish Venkat, affectionately called so after a fish market scene that made him famous, had been battling severe kidney problems for several months. He was under dialysis and eventually shifted to intensive care after his condition worsened. Doctors advised an urgent kidney transplant, but due to the lack of a suitable donor and rising complications, he passed away at a hospital in Hyderabad. His death came as a heartbreaking blow to the industry, which has lost yet another veteran.
Telugu Actor Fish Venkat Dies at 53 Amid Fake Aid Calls and Financial Struggles
Telugu actor Fish Venkat dies at 53, Just weeks before his death, his daughter Sravanthi appealed publicly for financial help to cover his transplant cost, estimated to be around ₹50 lakh. In a media interview, she mentioned receiving a call from someone claiming to be from actor Prabhas’ team, offering financial assistance. However, the family later revealed that the call turned out to be fake, adding another layer of distress to an already dire situation. They were still awaiting any form of genuine help when Venkat passed.
Venkat’s family had been tirelessly responding to calls, hoping that someone from the industry or the public would offer help. But unfortunately, the support never came in time. His daughter stated in another report that Venkat was extremely critical and needed immediate attention, but delays in aid and transplant possibilities left them helpless in the final hours.
Telugu Actor Fish Venkat Dies at 53, Remembered for Iconic Comedy Roles
Fish Venkat began his acting journey with support from the late director Dasari Narayana Rao, who gave him his first break in Sammakka Sarakka. Over time, his comic flair, natural dialect, and supporting roles made him a staple in many commercial hits. He played memorable parts in Bunny, Gabbar Singh, Mirapakay, and Kushi, often bringing levity to intense scenes with his signature expressions.
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One of his most recent appearances was in the Aha original thriller Coffee with a Killer, where he played a darker, more layered character that showcased his versatility. During the pandemic, he also starred in Maa Vintha Gaadha Vinuma and DJ Tillu, both of which were well-received and praised for his performance.
Beyond cinema, he was also beloved for his off-screen persona humble, humorous, and deeply rooted in Telangana’s local culture. His sudden passing has left an emotional void in the Telugu entertainment world. Also Read: Mysterious Death: Dan Rivera Dies At 54 While Working in Annabelle Doll Movie Tour
Conclusion:
Telugu actor Fish Venkat dies at 53, has not only ended the life of a prolific character actor but has also highlighted the harsh realities behind the glam of the film industry. The man who brought laughter to millions couldn’t find timely medical support in his final days. As fans and colleagues mourn, his legacy continues through the hundreds of roles that will forever keep his memory alive in Telugu cinema.
