KUALA LUMPUR, April 26: The sudden death of local Tamil actor, singer and host Sivakumar Jayabalan yesterday came as a huge shock for many in the local entertainment industry.
Sivabalan, 48, was found dead alongside his mother, 76, at a condominium in Taman Desa Petaling in Cheras here on Friday (April 25) afternoon, believed to have fallen from the 11th floor of the building.
Police are investigating the case.
“Siva was well known for his versatility and multitalents. Everyone knew that, but more than that, he was such a nice man. He was always smiling, and had a good heart and always spoke kindly. He always enquired about his fellow artistes and their latest projects and how they were doing. It is a huge loss for the local entertainment industry, and a very sad loss for me,” said popular singer, host, and entertainer Aanantha Rajam.
For scriptwriter and dancer, Devi, who had directed a local variety show in 2009, where Sivakumar was one of the artistes, she said the passing away of such a talented and a humble artiste in his prime was a terrible tragedy.
“He was an upcoming actor then, and he had won Astro’s Best Showmanship Award for Paadalthiran Potti 2006 and was busy with several hosting engagements but was very humble, approachable and ready to attend rehearsals for our show despite being busy,” she said.
“He acted in a short, comedy skit, where he took on the role of a famous Tamil movie character, Rambo, a split personality in the show. He was very accommodative and paid very little attention to the small amount he was paid for his role. He did not demand anything but took his role seriously and was terrific both as a dancer and actor. He gave so much as an actor. He will not be forgotten.”
Mathi, another dancer, who performed along with Sivakumar in the variety show, the news of his passing away was a total shock. “He was active in the Facebook. Friendly and kind. So alive. I will miss him.”
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