Vijay (actor)

{{Infobox officeholder

| name = Vijay

| office = President of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam

| image = Vijay at Protest of the Nadigar Sangam.jpg

| caption = Vijay in 2018

| birth_name = Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar

| birth_place = Madras, Tamil Nadu, India

| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=yes|1974|6|22}}

| predecessor = Position established

| term_start = {{start date|df=y|2024|02|02}}

| party = Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (2024{{nbnd}}present)

| spouse = {{marriage|Sangeeta|25 August 1999}}

| children = 2

| father = S. A. Chandrasekhar

| mother = Shoba Chandrasekhar

| residence = Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

| occupation = {{Hlist | Actor |singer | politician}}

| relatives = See Chandrasekhar family

| awards = Full list

| alma_mater = Loyola College, Chennai

}}

Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar (born 22 June 1974), known professionally as Vijay, is an Indian actor and playback singer who works in Tamil cinema. In a career spanning over three decades, Vijay has acted in 68 films and is one of the most commercially successful actors in Tamil cinema with multiple films amongst the highest-grossing Tamil films of all time and is amongst the highest paid actors in India. He has won several awards as an actor. Referred to as "Thalapathy" ({{Translation|Commander}}), Vijay has a significant fan following.

Born in Madras to director S. A. Chandrasekhar, Vijay made his debut as a child actor in the Tamil film Vetri (1984). After a few roles as a child actor in his father’s films, he played his first lead role in the film Naalaiya Theerpu (1992) at the age of 18. Vijay continued doing lead roles for the next few years with notable films amongst them included Poove Unakkaga (1996), Love Today (1997), Kadhalukku Mariyadhai (1997), Thullatha Manamum Thullum (1999) and Kushi (2000). In 1998, he was awarded Kalaimaamani by the Government of Tamil Nadu for his role in Kadhalukku Mariyadhai.

In 2004, he starred in the blockbuster action-masala film Ghilli and with subsequent success of Thirupaachi (2005) and Pokkiri (2007) later, he established himself as one of the leading and commercially successful actors in Tamil cinema. Following a period of moderate success, Vijay acted in several critically and commercially successful films starting from early 2010s including Thuppakki (2012), Kaththi (2014), Mersal (2017), Sarkar (2018), Master (2021), Leo (2023) and his penultimate film The Greatest of All Time (2024).

In February 2024, Vijay announced his retirement from films and his forthcoming entry into politics with the launch of his political party, known as Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.

Early life and family

Vijay was born as Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar on 22 June 1974 in Madras (now Chennai), Tamil Nadu.{{cite news |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/galleries/entertainment/2018/jun/22/happy-birthday-thalapathy-check-out-some-rare-images-of-the-vijay-101592.html |title=Happy birthday Thalapathy! Check out some rare images of the Vijay |newspaper=The New Indian Express |date=22 June 2021|access-date=15 September 2023|archive-date=4 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231004131004/https://www.newindianexpress.com/galleries/entertainment/2018/jun/22/happy-birthday-thalapathy-check-out-some-rare-images-of-the-vijay-101592.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=Manoj Kumar R |title='Thalapathy' Vijay, the last superstar of Tamil box office |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/opinion-entertainment/thalapathy-vijay-birthday-the-last-superstar-of-tamil-box-office-7982426/|orig-date=22 June 2022 |date=24 June 2022|access-date=27 October 2022 |newspaper=The Indian Express|archive-date=27 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027094938/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/opinion-entertainment/thalapathy-vijay-birthday-the-last-superstar-of-tamil-box-office-7982426/|url-status=live}} His father, S. A. Chandrasekhar, is a film director and his mother, Shoba Chandrasekhar, is a playback singer and vocalist.{{cite news |date=28 November 2023 |title=Did you know Kizhakku Vasal fame S.A. Chandrasekhar was a director? |newspaper=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/tuesday-trivia-did-you-know-kizhakku-vasal-fame-s-a-chandrasekhar-was-a-director-once/articleshow/105555369.cms|access-date=12 November 2022}} His father is of Christian descent and his mother is a Hindu.{{cite web |title=About Vijay |work=Vikatan |date=27 December 2021 |url=https://www.vikatan.com/topics/vijay-person-2|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227053108/https://www.vikatan.com/topics/vijay-person-2|archive-date=27 December 2021|url-status=live|access-date=27 December 2021}}{{cite web |title="I was born as a Christian, my wife is a Hindu": Vijay's father SA Chandrasekhar responds to allegations |work=Keralakaumudi Daily |date=21 February 2020 |url=https://keralakaumudi.com/en/news/news.php?id=249358&u=i-was-born-as-a-christian-my-wife-is-a-hindu-vijays-father-sa-chandrasekhar-responds-to-allegations-249358|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220104152739/https://keralakaumudi.com/en/news/news.php?id=249358&u=i-was-born-as-a-christian-my-wife-is-a-hindu-vijays-father-sa-chandrasekhar-responds-to-allegations-249358|archive-date=4 January 2022|url-status=live|access-date=4 January 2022}} Vijay had a sister, Vidhya, who died when she was two years old.{{cite news |url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/vijay-rare-childhood-picture-sister-vidhya-chandrasekhar-thalapathy-sukran-cameo-tamil-news-230281 |title=Rare picture of Vijay with his sister |date=25 February 2019 |work=IndiaGlitz.com|access-date=23 December 2020|archive-date=12 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512141909/https://www.indiaglitz.com/vijay-rare-childhood-picture-sister-vidhya-chandrasekhar-thalapathy-sukran-cameo-tamil-news-230281|url-status=live}} Vijay did his schooling initially at Fathima school, Kodambakkam and later at Balalok school, Virugambakkam.{{cite video |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1Ecr-4c5F0|archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211212/t1Ecr-4c5F0|archive-date=12 December 2021|url-status=live |title=Vijay speaks about his childhood schooling in fathima matriculation school chennai |work=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web |url=http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/which-celebritiy-belongs-to-your-schoolcollege/vijay.html |title=Vijay {{!}} Which Celebrity belongs to your school/college?|work=Behindwoods|date=23 April 2016|access-date=28 December 2017|archive-date=28 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171228171818/http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/which-celebritiy-belongs-to-your-schoolcollege/vijay.html|url-status=live}} He pursued a bachelor degree in visual communication from Loyola College.{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/top-south-actors-who-studied-in-loyala-college-chennai/vijay/slideshow/100422211.cms |title=Top actors who studied in Loyola college |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=22 May 2023|access-date=1 December 2023}}

Film career

= 1984–2003: Debut and transition to lead roles =

File:Childvj.jpg

At the age of 10, Vijay made his debut as a child actor in the Tamil film Vetri, produced by P. S. Veerappa in 1984.{{cite news |date=27 December 2021 |title=Vijay's First Salary as a Child actor in 1984 Revealed! it was 500 rupees |url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/k5E0a|access-date=27 December 2021 |work=Ghost archive}} He then acted as a child actor in films such as Kudumbam (1984), Vasantha Raagam (1986), Sattam Oru Vilayaattu (1987) and Ithu Engal Neethi (1988). He also acted in a supporting role with Rajinikanth in Naan Sigappu Manithan (1985), directed by his father.{{Cn|date=November 2024}}

File:98vjactor.jpg

Vijay played the lead role for the first time in Naalaiya Theerpu at the age of 18 in 1992.{{cite news|url-access=subscription |date=23 November 2007 |first=Prema |last=Manmadhan |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/style-of-his-own/article2274239.ece |title=Style of his own |newspaper=The Hindu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170625123513/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/style-of-his-own/article2274239.ece|archive-date=25 June 2017}} He then appeared in the films Senthoorapandi, Rasigan, Deva and Coimbatore Mappillai, most of those were successful.{{cite news |url=https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/sanghavi-recalls-her-experience-working-with-ilayathalapathy-vijay.html |title=Rasigan success |work=Behindwoods |date=16 February 2017|access-date=17 March 2021|archive-date=27 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210627160136/https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/sanghavi-recalls-her-experience-working-with-ilayathalapathy-vijay.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=successful Pongal releases for Vijay |work=Behindwoods |date=3 January 2017 |url=http://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/13-pongal-releases-for-vijay/index.html|access-date=6 May 2021|archive-date=13 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200213144024/http://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/13-pongal-releases-for-vijay/index.html|url-status=live}} In 1996, Vijay acted in Poove Unakkaga, directed by Vikraman, which according to him, gave him his initial break and popularity.{{cite news |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/tamil/interview.php?id=13647189&cid=2408|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050113190938/http://sify.com/movies/tamil/interview.php?id=13647189&cid=2408|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 January 2005 |title=Vijay blockbusters |date=20 January 2007 |work=Sify|access-date=24 April 2014}} In 1997, Vijay acted in Kaalamellam Kaathiruppen and Love Today.{{cite news |title=Kaalamellam Kaathiruppen – When Thalapathy Vijay played negative roles – Complete list here |work=Behindwoods |date=22 October 2018 |url=https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/list-of-films-in-which-thalapathy-vijay-played-negative-roles/kaalamellam-kaathiruppen.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210624074257/https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/list-of-films-in-which-thalapathy-vijay-played-negative-roles/kaalamellam-kaathiruppen.html|archive-date=24 June 2021|url-status=live|access-date=24 June 2021}}{{cite news |date=17 June 2020 |title=Shajahan:2001 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/love-today-to-vettaikaran-ten-times-when-vijay-delivered-a-super-hit-film-with-a-debutant-director/photostory/76425194.cms|access-date=14 December 2020 |newspaper=The Times of India|archive-date=16 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210216154745/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/love-today-to-vettaikaran-ten-times-when-vijay-delivered-a-super-hit-film-with-a-debutant-director/photostory/76425194.cms|url-status=live}}

Later, he starred in commercially successful films such as Nerrukku Ner, Kadhalukku Mariyadhai, Ninaithen Vandhai, Priyamudan and Thullatha Manamum Thullum.{{cite news |title=Happy Birthday Vijay: 10 best films of Ilayathalapathy as a performer |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/photo/happy-birthday-vijay-best-films-of-ilayathalapathy-vijay-19869-2016-06-22|access-date=5 August 2019 |work=India Today|archive-date=5 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190805123701/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/photo/happy-birthday-vijay-best-films-of-ilayathalapathy-vijay-19869-2016-06-22|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=K.N. |first=Vijiyan |date=27 June 1998 |title=Love story with a difference |url=https://mobile.twitter.com/VijayIsMyLife/status/1403445876815581188/photo/1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210623163943/https://mobile.twitter.com/VijayIsMyLife/status/1403445876815581188/photo/1 |archive-date=23 June 2021 |access-date=23 June 2021 |work=}} In 1999, he then acted in the films Endrendrum Kadhal, Nenjinile, and Minsara Kanna.{{cite news |title=Master is blockbuster but can Vijay now step out of his comfort zone? |work=India Today |date=16 January 2021 |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/master-is-blockbuster-but-can-vijay-now-step-out-of-his-comfort-zone-1759706-2021-01-16|access-date=17 May 2021|archive-date=3 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210503111825/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/master-is-blockbuster-but-can-vijay-now-step-out-of-his-comfort-zone-1759706-2021-01-16|url-status=live}} In 2000, he acted in critically successful, Kannukkul Nilavu, which was his 25th film, alongside commercially successful romantic films, Kushi and Priyamaanavale. In 2001, he acted in hat-trick box office successes; Friends, Badri and Shahjahan before starring in the action film Thamizhan alongside Priyanka Chopra in 2002.{{cite news |url=http://ibnlive.com/news/thamizhan-was-hit-because-of-vijay-imman/303460-71.html |title='Thamizhan' was hit because of Vijay: Imman |work=CNN-IBN |date=2 November 2012|access-date=10 December 2012|archive-date=20 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230220234859/https://www.news18.com/|url-status=live}} Later, he appeared in the romantic film Youth and the action film Bagavathi in the same year.{{cite news |title='Priyamanavale' to 'Pokkiri': Five superhit Tamil films of Vijay |newspaper=The Times of India |date=3 April 2020 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/priyamanavale-to-pokkiri-five-blockbuster-tamil-films-of-vijay-that-were-remade-from-telugu/photostory/74968711.cms|access-date=25 November 2020|archive-date=4 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210504103643/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/priyamanavale-to-pokkiri-five-blockbuster-tamil-films-of-vijay-that-were-remade-from-telugu/photostory/74968711.cms|url-status=live}} Vijay began 2003 with Vaseegara and Pudhiya Geethai.{{cite news |last=R |first=Manoj Kumar |title=Vijay's impressive comic-timing in Vaseegara |newspaper=The Indian Express |date=22 June 2021 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/opinion-entertainment/wishlist-vijay-should-collaborate-with-these-five-impressive-filmmakers-7369728/|access-date=5 July 2021|archive-date=9 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709182601/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/opinion-entertainment/wishlist-vijay-should-collaborate-with-these-five-impressive-filmmakers-7369728/|url-status=live}}

= 2003–11: Established actor =

In 2003, following the action-romance film Thirumalai, Vijay starred in Ghilli, directed by S. Dharani, alongside Trisha and Prakash Raj.{{cite news |url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/9966.html |title=Ghilli's record break |work=Indiaglitz.com |date=24 July 2004|access-date=10 May 2013|archive-date=21 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921060746/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/9966.html|url-status=live}} The movie became a commercial success and became the first Tamil film to gross over {{INR}}500 million at the domestic box office and also broke the record for the most people watching the movie within the first week of its release, previously held by M. G. Ramachandran's Adimai Penn (1969).{{cite news |date=17 April 2018 |title=14 years of Vijay's Ghilli – Things you din't know about the blockbuster |url=http://www.suryanfm.in/suryan-stories/14-years-ilayathalapthy-vijays-ghilli-facts/|access-date=12 June 2020 |work=Suryan FM|archive-date=12 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200612085138/http://www.suryanfm.in/suryan-stories/14-years-ilayathalapthy-vijays-ghilli-facts/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=S |first1=Srivatsan |title=When Janaki Sabesh and Ashish Vidyarthi had a 'Ghilli' reunion |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/the-ghilli-reunion/article31778167.ece|url-access=subscription|access-date=11 April 2021 |newspaper=The Hindu |date=8 June 2020 |language=en-IN|archive-date=11 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411110633/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/the-ghilli-reunion/article31778167.ece|url-status=live}} Following the same, he acted in Madhurey and Thirupaachi in 2005.{{cite news |title='Love Today' to 'Vettaikaran': Ten times when Vijay delivered a super hit film with a debutant director |newspaper=The Times of India |date=17 June 2020 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/love-today-to-vettaikaran-ten-times-when-vijay-delivered-a-super-hit-film-with-a-debutant-director/photostory/76425194.cms|access-date=25 November 2020|archive-date=16 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210216154745/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/love-today-to-vettaikaran-ten-times-when-vijay-delivered-a-super-hit-film-with-a-debutant-director/photostory/76425194.cms|url-status=live}} Later, he starred in the commercially successful films Sachein, Sivakasi and Pokkiri. Pokkiri became one of the highest-grossing films of his career at the time.{{cite news |title='Pokkiri' to 'Bairavaa': Five times when Vijay rocked the box office during Pongal |newspaper=The Times of India |date=11 January 2021 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/pokkiri-to-bairavaa-five-times-when-vijay-rocked-the-box-office-during-pongal/photostory/80214638.cms|access-date=29 September 2021|archive-date=29 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210929164825/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/pokkiri-to-bairavaa-five-times-when-vijay-rocked-the-box-office-during-pongal/photostory/80214638.cms|url-status=live}}

File:Vijay actor in 2007 releasing his filmfare cover magazine with Vijay for victory.jpg

In late 2007, Vijay starred in the romantic thriller film Azhagiya Tamil Magan, where he portrayed a dual role for the first time in his career. He played the roles of both protagonist and antagonist.{{cite news |title=When a star was his own villain! |newspaper=The Times of India |date=August 31, 2016 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/when-a-star-was-his-own-villain/photostory/53946087.cms|access-date=November 12, 2022|archive-date=12 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221112071529/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/when-a-star-was-his-own-villain/photostory/53946087.cms|url-status=live}} The film was commercially successful outside India.{{cite news |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/intl/?page=&country=ZA&id=_fAZHAGIYATAMIZHMA01 |title=Azhagiya Tamizh Magan (2007) |work=Boxoffice mojo|access-date=15 May 2019|archive-date=20 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230220234915/https://www.boxofficemojo.com/release/rl768771073/weekend/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=Wong |first=Silvia |title=Malaysian box office hits all-time high of $100m |work=Screen |date=5 February 2008 |url=https://www.screendaily.com/malaysian-box-office-hits-all-time-high-of-100m/4037013.article|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211206052007/https://www.screendaily.com/malaysian-box-office-hits-all-time-high-of-100m/4037013.article|archive-date=6 December 2021|url-status=live|access-date=6 December 2021}} Except the commercially successful, Kuruvi in 2008{{Cite web |date=23 April 2010 |title=Vijay's 'Kavalkaran' rolling fast on floors |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2010/apr/23/vijays-kavalkaran-rolling-fast-on-floors-149668.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220101165514/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2010/apr/23/vijays-kavalkaran-rolling-fast-on-floors-149668.html |archive-date=1 January 2022 |access-date=7 May 2021 |website=The New Indian Express}}{{Cite web |date=1 October 2008 |title='Kuruvi' and its 150 day grand success |url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/kuruvi-and-its-150-day-flight-hollywood-news-41962 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240115160340/https://www.indiaglitz.com/kuruvi-and-its-150-day-flight-hollywood-news-41962 |archive-date=15 January 2024 |access-date=15 January 2024 |website=IndiaGlitz.com}} and Vettaikaaran in 2009, his subsequent releases Azhagiya Tamil Magan and Villu were average successes at domestic box office while continuing to be more successful overseas.{{cite news |date=4 December 2007 |title=Chennai Box-office (Nov 30 to Dec 2) |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/boxoffice.php?id=plupn1acchbad|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171219123951/http://www.sify.com/movies/boxoffice.php?id=plupn1acchbad|archive-date=19 December 2017 |work=Sify}}{{cite news |date=17 June 2008 |title=Chennai Box-Office (June 13–15) |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/boxoffice.php?id=plupovhjhhacc|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171219123953/http://www.sify.com/movies/boxoffice.php?id=plupovhjhhacc|archive-date=19 December 2017 |work=Sify}}{{cite news |date=3 February 2009 |title=Chennai Box Office (Jan 30 to February 1, 2009) |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/boxoffice.php?id=pluppHedibbbf|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20171219123953/http://www.sify.com/movies/boxoffice.php?id=pluppHedibbbf|archive-date=19 December 2017 |work=Sify}} Vijay continued to be one of the highest paid actors despite the moderate success of then recently released movies.{{cite web | last=P | first=Kanmani | title=Vettaikaaran success made Vijay salary peak | website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd | date=2022-06-22 | url=https://tamil.asianetnews.com/gallery/cinema/thalapathy-birthday-special-from-villu-to-varisu-vijays-v-series-movie-list-rdvmaj | language=ta | access-date=2024-05-24}}

In 2010, he acted in the action comedy film Sura, which was his 50th film as an actor.{{cite news |date=23 November 2017 |title=BARC Wk 45: Movies from south spike viewership of Hindi channels |url=https://www.exchange4media.com/media-tv-news/barc-wk-45movies-from-south-spike-viewership-of-hindi-channels-87298.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://archive.today/20210723164333/https://www.exchange4media.com/media-tv-news/barc-wk-45movies-from-south-spike-viewership-of-hindi-channels-87298.html|archive-date=23 July 2021|access-date=17 August 2021 |work=Indian Advertising Media & Marketing News – exchange4media}}{{cite news |title=Did you know Vijay's 'Sura' director SP Rajkumar was going to team up with Ajith a few years back? |newspaper=The Times of India |date=30 April 2020 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know/did-you-know-vijays-sura-director-sp-rajkumar-was-going-to-team-up-with-ajith-a-few-years-back/articleshow/75472908.cms|access-date=7 June 2021|archive-date=27 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827102800/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know/did-you-know-vijays-sura-director-sp-rajkumar-was-going-to-team-up-with-ajith-a-few-years-back/articleshow/75472908.cms|url-status=live}} In early 2011, Vijay acted in the romantic comedy Kaavalan, directed by Siddique which received positive response and a box office collection of {{INR}}102 crore worldwide.{{cite news |title=The South Side Story |work=Business World |date=19 February 2015 |url=http://www.businessworld.in/news/null/the-south-side-story/696844/page-1.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20141214014842/http://www.businessworld.in/news/null/the-south-side-story/696844/page-1.html|archive-date=14 December 2014|url-status=dead|access-date=5 March 2021}}{{cite news |date=26 January 2011 |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-s-kaavalan-is-a-hit-news-tamil-lbzkgaadefh.html |title=Kaavalan is a Hit|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110128024128/http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-s-kaavalan-is-a-hit-news-tamil-lbzkgaadefh.html|archive-date=28 January 2011|url-status=dead |work=Sify|access-date=6 June 2011}} The film was screened at the Shanghai International Film Festival in China.{{cite news |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/south-kaavalan-at-the-shanghai-film-festival/20110509.htm |title=Vijay's Kaavalan at the Shanghai film festival |work=Rediff|access-date=10 September 2018|archive-date=11 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911045110/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/south-kaavalan-at-the-shanghai-film-festival/20110509.htm|url-status=live}} Kaavalan was a commercial success in China.{{cite news |title=Ilaya Thalapathy Vijay Wows China – Vijay – Kavalan – Shanghai Film Festival – Tamil Movie News |work=Behindwoods |date=23 June 2021 |url=https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/jun-11-02/vijay-kavalan-13-06-11-02.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210623054853/https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/jun-11-02/vijay-kavalan-13-06-11-02.html|archive-date=23 June 2021|url-status=live|access-date=23 June 2021}} His next film was the action film Velayudham, directed by M. Raja which released during Diwali and became one of the top-grossing films of 2011.{{cite news |last=Nair |first=Sree Prasad |title=From Ghilli to Theri: 10 Ilayathalapathy Vijay action blockbusters one should know! |work=CatchNews.com |date=19 May 2016 |url=https://www.catchnews.com/regional-cinema/list-of-ilayathalapathy-vijay-action-packed-films-actor-vijay-filmography-theri-movie-box-office-records-top-south-indian-action-films-from-ghilli-to-theri-movie-news-1463648578.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213072110/https://www.catchnews.com/regional-cinema/list-of-ilayathalapathy-vijay-action-packed-films-actor-vijay-filmography-theri-movie-box-office-records-top-south-indian-action-films-from-ghilli-to-theri-movie-news-1463648578.html|access-date=21 December 2020|archive-date=13 December 2021}} The movie was also a critical success overseas.{{cite news |title=Velayudham popularity in Japan |work=Zee News |date=16 April 2013 |url=https://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/regional/hansika-motwani-touched-by-japanese-fans_132222.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220116100114/https://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/regional/hansika-motwani-touched-by-japanese-fans_132222.html|archive-date=16 January 2022|access-date=21 May 2021}}

= 2012–present: Commercial success =

File:Tamil Film actor Vijay Celebrating World Environment Day at the U.S. Consulate Chennai 5.jpg

In 2012, Vijay acted in the commercially successful Nanban, a remake of successful Hindi film 3 Idiots.{{cite news |last=Srinivasan |first=Pavithra |title=Review: Nanban is worth a watch |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/south-review-nanban-is-worth-a-watch/20120112.htm |work=Rediff.com|access-date=12 January 2012|archive-date=26 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170226145641/http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/south-review-nanban-is-worth-a-watch/20120112.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Pereira |first1=Priyanka |title=Foreign Return |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/foreign-return/984421/|access-date=19 March 2021 |work=Indian Express |date=6 August 2012|archive-date=4 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220304043041/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/foreign-return/984421/|url-status=live}} Later in the year, he acted in the action thriller Thuppakki, directed by A. R. Murugadoss.{{cite news |last=Srinivasan |first=Pavithra |title=Review: Thuppaki is dull |work=Rediff |date=13 November 2012 |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-thuppaki-is-dull/20121113.htm|access-date=3 July 2021|archive-date=9 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709183730/https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-thuppaki-is-dull/20121113.htm|url-status=live}} The film became the third Tamil film to gross more than {{INR}}100 crore domestically and became the most successful film of Vijay's career at the time, grossing over {{INR}}121 crore.{{Cite web |date=5 August 2015 |title=Baahubali to Thuppakki: Tamil Cinema's 100 Cr Films |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/baahubali-to-thuppakki-tamil-cinemas-100-cr-films-1204181 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220615132934/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/baahubali-to-thuppakki-tamil-cinemas-100-cr-films-1204181 |archive-date=15 June 2022 |access-date=13 June 2023 |website=NDTV}} His next film Thalaivaa, directed by A. L. Vijay, was released in August 2013 to mixed reviews.{{cite news |title='Thalaivaa' movie Review |newspaper=The Times of India |date=9 August 2013 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/thalaivaa/movie-review/21706107.cms?from=mdr |access-date=26 January 2024}} In 2014, he acted in Jilla which ended up as a box office hit.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/tamil/news-interviews/Vijays-Jilla-set-to-roll-from-May/articleshow/18588307.cms |title=Vijay's 'Jilla' set to roll from May!|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130220125337/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/regional/tamil/news-interviews/Vijays-Jilla-set-to-roll-from-May/articleshow/18588307.cms|archive-date=20 February 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |date=20 February 2013|access-date=25 April 2013}}{{cite news |url=http://www.inreporter.com/tag/jilla-100-day-box-office-collection/ |title=Jilla 100 Day Box Office Collection]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140715003215/http://www.inreporter.com/tag/jilla-100-day-box-office-collection/|archive-date=15 July 2014 |work=InReporter |date=10 April 2014}} Vijay then starred in the action thriller Kaththi, where he portrayed another dual role. The film received positive reviews and collected {{INR}}130 crore at the box office, becoming one of the highest-grossing Tamil films in 2014.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/kaththi-to-bigil-vijay-starrer-films-that-became-blockbusters-despite-the-mixed-reviews/photostory/90848522.cms?picid=90848752 |title='Kaththi' to 'Bigil': Vijay starrer films that became blockbusters, despite the mixed reviews |newspaper=The Times of India |date=15 April 2022 |access-date=1 April 2023}}

In 2015, he starred in the fantasy film Puli, directed by Chimbu Deven, which received mixed to poor reviews from critics.{{cite news |title='Puli' is a film that everybody can enjoy: Chimbu Deven |work=News18 |date=29 September 2015 |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/puli-is-a-film-that-everybody-can-enjoy-chimbu-deven-1121995.html|access-date=19 May 2021|archive-date=11 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210511133916/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/puli-is-a-film-that-everybody-can-enjoy-chimbu-deven-1121995.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |date=1 October 2015 |title=Puli review: Vijay's fantasy drama is a fantastic flop |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/movie-reviews/puli-review-vijay-s-fantasy-drama-is-a-fantastic-flop/story-rZTyaq7YZBPxhTfNGzI0DM.html|access-date=22 April 2020 |newspaper=Hindustan Times}} Despite the reviews, the film was one of the highest-grossing films of 2015.{{cite web | title=Vijay Puli ends with a below average note | website=bollywood hungama | date=2021-09-04 | url=https://www.primesworld.com/puli/ | access-date=2024-06-05}}{{cite news |title=Puli roars at the box office |work=Bangalore Mirror |date=5 October 2015 |url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/puli-roars-at-the-box-office/articleshow/49232877.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220301040136/https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/south-masala/puli-roars-at-the-box-office/articleshow/49232877.cms|archive-date=1 March 2022|url-status=live|access-date=1 March 2022}}{{cite news |title=Vijay's latest release crosses Rs 100 crore in pre-release business |work=Firstpost |date=17 October 2017 |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/mersal-vijay-atlees-diwali-release-crosses-rs-150-crore-in-pre-release-business-4150357.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220301040828/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/mersal-vijay-atlees-diwali-release-crosses-rs-150-crore-in-pre-release-business-4150357.html|archive-date=1 March 2022|url-status=live|access-date=1 March 2022}} In April 2016, the action-thriller Theri directed by Atlee released to mixed reviews.{{cite news |last=VS |first=Goutham |title=Theri movie review: Vijay's limitations as an actor exposed in a predictable storyline |newspaper=The Indian Express |date=5 June 2020 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/theri-movie-review-vijay-gimmicks-too-less-a-factor-to-be-excited-about-a-predictable-storyline/|access-date=29 June 2021|archive-date=21 September 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210921232459/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/theri-movie-review-vijay-gimmicks-too-less-a-factor-to-be-excited-about-a-predictable-storyline/|url-status=live}} It became the second-highest-grossing Tamil film of 2016, grossing over {{INR}}170 crore. In 2017, the masala film Bairavaa was released, again to mixed reviews.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/bairavaa/movie-review/56493727.cms |title=Bairavaa movie review |newspaper=The Times of India| date=12 January 2017| access-date=1 December 2023}} In 2017, the action thriller Mersal released, which became a commercial success, becoming the first of Vijay's films to gross over {{INR}}250 crore.{{cite news|last=Suganth|first=M|title=Mersal Review {3.5/5}: When you have a mass hero in full form like Vijay is in the film, how can things go wrong?|newspaper=The Times of India|date=18 October 2017|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movie-reviews/mersal/movie-review/61127534.cms|access-date=29 June 2021}} The film won the Best Foreign Language Film award at the National Film Awards UK in 2018 with Vijay earning a nomination for the best acroe.{{cite news |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vijay-s-mersal-wins-international-award-78864 |title=Vijay's 'Mersal' wins international award |date=2 April 2018 |work=The News Minute|access-date=10 September 2018|archive-date=3 April 2019|archive-url=https://archive.today/20190403155318/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vijay-s-mersal-wins-international-award-78864|url-status=live}} The film was amongst the few films of Vijay to be released in Japan and China with further screening at the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival in South Korea.{{cite news |url=https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/vijays-mersal-screened-at-bifan-film-festival.html |title=Vijay's Mersal screened at BIFAN Film Festival |date=30 July 2018 |work=Behindwoods|access-date=10 September 2018|archive-date=3 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403231358/https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/vijays-mersal-screened-at-bifan-film-festival.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/thalapathy-vijays-mersal-to-release-in-china.html |title=Thalapathy Vijay's Mersal to release in China |date=10 August 2018 |work=Behindwoods|access-date=10 August 2018|archive-date=26 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181226083456/https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/thalapathy-vijays-mersal-to-release-in-china.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://www.sify.com/movies/puli-to-release-in-japan-and-china-news-tamil-pj0ky8fdbhgie.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150928225245/http://www.sify.com/movies/puli-to-release-in-japan-and-china-news-tamil-pj0ky8fdbhgie.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=28 September 2015 |title='Puli' to release in Japan and China? |work=Sify}}

In 2018, Vijay acted in the political film Sarkar with Keerthy Suresh, which entered the 100 Crore Club within two days.{{cite news |date=8 November 2018 |title=Vijay's 'Sarkar' joins Rs 100 crore club in just two days |work=The News Minute |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vijays-sarkar-joins-rs-100-crore-club-just-two-days-91208|access-date=22 November 2018|archive-date=22 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181122092133/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vijays-sarkar-joins-rs-100-crore-club-just-two-days-91208|url-status=live}} The film was released in 80 countries and became his second ever film to gross over {{INR}}250 crore.{{cite news |last=Desk |first=Express Web |title=Sarkar box office collection: AR Murugadoss film crosses Rs 250 crore mark worldwide |newspaper=The Indian Express |date=28 November 2018 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/sarkar-box-office-collection-ar-murugadoss-film-crosses-rs-250-crore-mark-worldwide-5468590/|access-date=18 August 2021|archive-date=31 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211031234546/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/sarkar-box-office-collection-ar-murugadoss-film-crosses-rs-250-crore-mark-worldwide-5468590/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Vijay a man with a swag |work=The Hollywood Reporter |date=4 November 2018 |url=https://archive.org/download/the-hollywood-reporter-movie-reviews-and-latest-updates/The%20Hollywood%20Reporter%20Movie%20Reviews%20and%20Latest%20Updates.png|access-date=5 July 2021}}{{cite news |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vijay-s-sarkar-release-80-countries-1200-international-screens-90862 |title=Vijay's 'Sarkar' to release in 80 countries, 1200 international screens |publisher=The News Minute |date=31 October 2018|access-date=10 February 2022|archive-date=22 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181122092145/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vijay-s-sarkar-release-80-countries-1200-international-screens-90862|url-status=live}} Vijay acted in a football action film Bigil, which released in 2019.{{cite news |last=Madhu |first=Vignesh |date=22 March 2019 |title=Thalapathy 63: Vijay undergoes special special training in football |url=http://onlookersmedia.in/latestnews/thalapathy-63-vijay-undergoes-special-special-training-football/|access-date=26 March 2020 |work=onlookersmedia |language=en-US|archive-date=26 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326093416/http://onlookersmedia.in/latestnews/thalapathy-63-vijay-undergoes-special-special-training-football/|url-status=live}} While the film received mixed reviews from critics, Vijay was praised for the portrayal of his character and the film was a commercial success, earning more than {{INR}}300 crore.{{cite news |last=Subhakeerthana |first=S |title=Bigil movie review: A star is forced to remain a star throughout |newspaper=The Indian Express |date=31 October 2019 |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/bigil-movie-review-rating-vijay-6088172/|access-date=24 June 2021|archive-date=16 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210316051423/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/movie-review/bigil-movie-review-rating-vijay-6088172/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Tamil Star Vijay Reportedly Earned Rs 30 crore for Bigil, Reveal IT Raids |work=News18 |date=7 February 2020 |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/tamil-star-vijay-reportedly-earned-rs-30-crore-for-bigil-reveal-it-raids-2491609.html|access-date=26 January 2021|archive-date=1 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211101094219/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/tamil-star-vijay-reportedly-earned-rs-30-crore-for-bigil-reveal-it-raids-2491609.html|url-status=live}} It was also the first Tamil film to be released in Egypt and Jordan.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/after-egypt-vijays-bigil-marks-an-entry-in-jordan/articleshow/71917663.cms#:~:text='Bigil'%20will%20hit%20the%20screens,been%20composed%20by%20AR%20Rahman |title=After Egypt, Vijay's 'Bigil' marks an entry in Jordan |newspaper=Times of India |date=|access-date=10 February 2022|archive-date=10 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211210085430/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/after-egypt-vijays-bigil-marks-an-entry-in-jordan/articleshow/71917663.cms#:~:text='Bigil'%20will%20hit%20the%20screens,been%20composed%20by%20AR%20Rahman|url-status=live}} In 2021, his next film Master, directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj was released.{{cite news |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/thalapathy-64-eyes-a-summer-2020-release-vijay-5935094/ |title=Thalapathy 64 eyes a summer 2020 release |date=25 August 2019|access-date=8 June 2020|archive-date=8 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200608120308/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/thalapathy-64-eyes-a-summer-2020-release-vijay-5935094/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Vijay's 'Master' will be postponed to May or June? |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-master-will-be-postponed-to-may-or-june/articleshow/74810813.cms |newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=8 June 2020|archive-date=27 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200327185930/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-master-will-be-postponed-to-may-or-june/articleshow/74810813.cms|url-status=live}} Upon release, it received mixed to positive reviews from the critics.{{cite news |last=Arikatla |first=Venkat |title=Master Movie Review: Lacks the Desired Effect |work=Great Andhra |date=13 January 2021 |url=https://www.greatandhra.com/movies/reviews/master-review-lacks-the-desired-effect-110251|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220223052318/https://www.greatandhra.com/movies/reviews/master-review-lacks-the-desired-effect-110251|archive-date=23 February 2022|url-status=live|access-date=23 February 2022}}{{cite news |last=S |first=Srivatsan |title='Master' movie review: An in-form Vijay takes a backseat to have fun. But is that enough? |newspaper=The Hindu |date=13 January 2021 |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/master-movie-review/article33569018.ece|url-access=subscription|access-date=29 June 2021|archive-date=8 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210208063834/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/reviews/master-movie-review/article33569018.ece|url-status=live}} The film collected over {{INR}}300 crore worldwide and was declared a box office success.{{cite news |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/thalapathy-65-will-be-pan-indian-project-cinematographer-manoj-paramahamsa-144151 |title='Thalapathy 65' will be a pan-Indian project: Cinematographer Manoj Paramahamsa |publisher=The News Minute |date=25 February 2021|access-date=10 February 2022|archive-date=25 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210425094035/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/thalapathy-65-will-be-pan-indian-project-cinematographer-manoj-paramahamsa-144151|url-status=live}} His next film was the dark comedy action film Beast, which received mixed reviews from critics.{{cite news |last=Chatterjee |first=Saibal |title=Beast (RAW) Review |work=NDTV |date=Apr 14, 2022 |url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/beast-raw-review-an-ill-formed-creature-even-firing-on-all-cylinders-vijay-cannot-pummel-into-shape-2-5-stars-2886949|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220414061156/https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/beast-raw-review-an-ill-formed-creature-even-firing-on-all-cylinders-vijay-cannot-pummel-into-shape-2-5-stars-2886949|archive-date=14 April 2022|url-status=live|access-date=Apr 14, 2022}}{{cite news |title=Beast Review: Thalapathy Vijay's 'One-man Show' Is A 'True Feast' |work=Bollywood Hungama |date=Apr 14, 2022 |url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/jWTHp|access-date=Apr 14, 2022}}{{cite news |title=Thalapathy Vijay's Beast to release in April 2022. See new poster |work=India Today |date=1 January 2022 |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/thalapathy-vijay-s-beast-to-release-in-april-2022-see-new-poster-1894770-2022-01-01|access-date=4 January 2022|archive-date=1 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220101125138/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/thalapathy-vijay-s-beast-to-release-in-april-2022-see-new-poster-1894770-2022-01-01|url-status=live}} The film performed well in overseas box office and was commercially successful, collecting more than {{INR}}300 crore worldwide.{{cite news |title='Beast' USA premiere collection: Vijay starrer breaks Rajinikanth's film collection to become the Vijay's highest-grossing film |newspaper=The Times of India |date=Apr 10, 2022 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/box-office/beast-usa-premiere-collection-vijay-starrer-breaks-rajinikanths-annaatthe-collection-to-become-the-formers-highest-grossing-film/articleshow/90761515.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220416153443/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/box-office/beast-usa-premiere-collection-vijay-starrer-breaks-rajinikanths-annaatthe-collection-to-become-the-formers-highest-grossing-film/articleshow/90761515.cms|archive-date=16 April 2022|url-status=live|access-date=Apr 16, 2022}}{{cite news |title='Beast' overseas box office collection: Vijay storms the international market |newspaper=The Times of India |date=14 April 2022 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/box-office/beast-overseas-box-office-collection-vijay-storms-the-international-market/articleshow/90841888.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220430055805/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/box-office/beast-overseas-box-office-collection-vijay-storms-the-international-market/articleshow/90841888.cms|archive-date=30 April 2022|url-status=live|access-date=Apr 30, 2022}}{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/nelson-dilipkumar-reveals-why-he-enjoyed-shooting-for-beast-the-most/articleshow/103353542.cms |title=Nelson Dilipkumar reveals why he enjoyed shooting for 'Beast' the most |date=4 September 2023 |newspaper=The Times of India |quote=The film was a commercial success and made more than Rs 300 crore at the box office.|access-date=29 September 2023|archive-date=8 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230908143852/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/nelson-dilipkumar-reveals-why-he-enjoyed-shooting-for-beast-the-most/articleshow/103353542.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last= |first= |date=19 April 2022 |title=Beast box office collection day 5: Vjay-starrer earns Rs 200 crore worldwide, is declared a hit |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/beast-box-office-collection-day-5-vijay-starrer-rs-200-crore-worldwide-7874311/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220420193205/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/beast-box-office-collection-day-5-vijay-starrer-rs-200-crore-worldwide-7874311/ |archive-date=20 April 2022 |access-date=20 April 2022 |newspaper=The Indian Express}} It became one of the most viewed films on Netflix globally in 2022.{{cite news |title=Beast trending worldwide on Netflix in top spots |work=NDTV |date=May 14, 2022 |url=https://ndtv.in/bollywood/beast-trending-at-number-one-in-india-on-netflix-vijay-thalapathy-2972013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220514070357/https://ndtv.in/bollywood/beast-trending-at-number-one-in-india-on-netflix-vijay-thalapathy-2972013|archive-date=May 14, 2022|url-status=live|access-date=May 14, 2022}}{{cite news |title=Beast TOP 10 in Netflix global – FlixPatrol |work=FlixPatrol |date=May 13, 2022 |url=https://flixpatrol.com/title/beast-2022/top10/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220513082925/https://flixpatrol.com/title/beast-2022/top10/|archive-date=May 13, 2022|url-status=live|access-date=May 13, 2022}}

In 2023, Vijay starred in the action drama film Varisu directed by Vamshi Paidipally.{{cite news |title='Varisu' first review out; Vijay's acting receives appreciation |newspaper=The Times of India |date=January 9, 2023 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/varisu-first-review-out-vijays-acting-receives-appreciation/articleshow/96846599.cms|access-date=January 10, 2023|archive-date=10 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230110182909/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/varisu-first-review-out-vijays-acting-receives-appreciation/articleshow/96846599.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Vijay's 'Varisu' to release over 600 locations in the USA; premiere bookings open now |newspaper=The Times of India |date=December 28, 2022 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-varisu-to-release-over-600-locations-in-the-usa-premiere-bookings-open-now/articleshow/96562983.cms|access-date=January 4, 2023|archive-date=4 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104124455/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-varisu-to-release-over-600-locations-in-the-usa-premiere-bookings-open-now/articleshow/96562983.cms|url-status=live}} The film was a commercial success, grossing over {{INR}}300 crore at the box office.{{cite news |title=Music composer S Thaman breaks the news on 'Varisu' original sound track |newspaper=The Times of India |date=February 5, 2023 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/music/music-composer-s-thaman-breaks-the-news-on-varisu-original-sound-track/articleshow/97619826.cms|access-date=February 5, 2023|archive-date=5 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230205092807/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/music/music-composer-s-thaman-breaks-the-news-on-varisu-original-sound-track/articleshow/97619826.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title='Varisu' Box office Collection: 'Varisu' becomes Vijay's highest-grossing movie, surpasses Rs. 300 crore globally |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=7 February 2023 |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/new-updates/varisu-box-office-collection-varisu-becomes-vijays-highest-grossing-movie-surpasses-rs-300-crore-globally/articleshow/97691510.cms|access-date=Feb 7, 2023|archive-date=7 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207110808/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/new-updates/varisu-box-office-collection-varisu-becomes-vijays-highest-grossing-movie-surpasses-rs-300-crore-globally/articleshow/97691510.cms|url-status=live}} His next release of 2023 was the action thriller Leo.{{cite news |last=V |first=Anusha |title=Vijay-Lokesh Kanagaraj's Leo to release on this date |work=Cinema Express |date=3 February 2023 |url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/feb/03/vijay-lokesh-kanagarajs-leo-to-release-on-this-date-39603.html|access-date=April 1, 2023|archive-date=1 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401053824/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/feb/03/vijay-lokesh-kanagarajs-leo-to-release-on-this-date-39603.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Vijay's film with Lokesh Kanagaraj titled 'Leo' |newspaper=The Times of India |date=3 February 2023 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-film-with-lokesh-kanagaraj-titled-leo/articleshow/97581241.cms|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204115239/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-film-with-lokesh-kanagaraj-titled-leo/articleshow/97581241.cms|url-status=live}} It received mixed reviews from critics, but went on to become a commercially successful film and emerged as one of the highest grossing Indian films of the year with a gross more than {{INR}}600 crore.{{cite news | title='Leo' gets mixed review from viewers and negative response from critics; fans call it Thalapathy Vijay's 'Best Performance' | website=CNBCTV18 | date=19 October 2023 | url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/entertainment/leo-gets-mixed-review-fans-call-it-thalapathy-vijay-best-performance-18097171.htm | access-date=4 February 2024}}{{Cite web |date=2023-11-23 |title=Leo worldwide closing box office collections: Vijay starrer is the Highest grossing Tamil film of All Time |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/leo-worldwide-closing-box-office-collections-vijay-starrer-is-the-highest-grossing-tamil-film-of-all-time-1260510 |access-date=2024-01-16 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en}} His sci-fi action film The Greatest of All Time opened to mixed reviews, but had a theatrical revenue of more than {{INR}}450 crore.{{Cite web |last=Dixit |first=Mohit |date=2024-10-01 |title=The GOAT Final Box Office Collections Worldwide: Thalapathy Vijay's action-drama to end its theatrical SHOWDOWN at Rs 456 crore; A Super-Hit |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/the-goat-final-box-office-collections-worldwide-thalapathy-vijays-action-drama-to-end-its-theatrical-showdown-at-rs-456-crore-a-super-hit-1351301 |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=Pinkvilla |language=en|archive-date=2024-10-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241001085319/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/the-goat-final-box-office-collections-worldwide-thalapathy-vijays-action-drama-to-end-its-theatrical-showdown-at-rs-456-crore-a-super-hit-1351301 |url-status=live}}{{cite web | author=The TOI Entertainment Desk is a dynamic | title='GOAT' first review out from UK censor; A blockbuster status loading for Vijay and Venkat Prabhu | website=The Times of India | date=2024-08-31 | url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/goat-first-review-out-from-uk-censor-a-blockbuster-status-loading-for-vijay-and-venkat-prabhu/articleshow/112942746.cms | access-date=2024-09-04}}{{cite web | last=Pandya | first=Sonal | title=Netflix Global Top 10: Vijay's GOAT Debuts globally at fourth place With 3.8 Million Views, Nobody Wants This Grabs 1st Place On TV List | website=Times Now | date=2024-10-11 | url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/web-series/netflix-global-top-10-vijay-goat-debuts-with-3-8-million-views-nobody-wants-this-grabs-1st-place-on-tv-list-article-114151547 | access-date=2024-10-11}} In February 2024, Vijay announced that he would do only one more film, which will be his 69th and last as a lead actor, titled as Jana Nayagan.{{cite news |date=2 February 2024 |title=Vijay's confirms his final film will be 'Thalapathy 69' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-confirms-his-final-film-will-be-thalapathy-69/articleshow/107351699.cms|access-date=2 February 2024 |newspaper=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{cite news |date=2 February 2024 |title=Thalapathy 69 will be last film, Vijay says after launching his political party |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/news/thalapathy-69-will-be-last-film-vijay-says-after-launching-his-political-party|access-date=2 February 2024 |work=The News Minute}}{{cite news |last1=Sista |first1=Pratyusha |title=Thalapathy 69 titled 'Jana Nayagan'; First look poster released |url=https://telanganatoday.com/thalapathy-69-titled-jana-nayagan-first-look-poster-released |access-date=26 January 2025 |work=Telangana Today |date=26 January 2025}}

Political career

In 2009, Vijay launched his fan club Vijay Makkal Iyakkam.{{cite news |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/tamil-nadu/vijays-fan-club-to-take-new-dimension-hints-at-his-political-plunge-2662255 |title=Vijay's fan club to take 'new dimension', hints at his political plunge|access-date=1 February 2024|archive-date=1 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240201164524/https://www.deccanherald.com/india/tamil-nadu/vijays-fan-club-to-take-new-dimension-hints-at-his-political-plunge-2662255|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know/vijay-makkal-iyakkam-was-launched-in-2009/articleshow/49134646.cms |title=Vijay Makkal Iyakkam was launched in 2009 |newspaper=The Times of India |date=28 September 2015|access-date=1 February 2024|archive-date=14 November 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221114203024/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/did-you-know/vijay-makkal-iyakkam-was-launched-in-2009/articleshow/49134646.cms|url-status=live}} The organization supported the AIADMK alliance in the 2011 assembly elections.{{cite news |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2011/Aug/18/makkal-iyakkam-wont-be-a-political-outfit-282739.html |title='Makkal Iyakkam won't be a political outfit' |date=16 May 2012|access-date=1 December 2023}} The fan club organization contested in the local body elections in Tamil Nadu in October 2021, securing victory in 115 out of the 169 contested seats.{{cite news |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/tamil-nadu/actor-vijay-speaks-students-meet-chennai-takes-potshot-political-parties-178622 |title=Actor Vijay speaks to students at meet in Chennai, takes a potshot at political parties |date=17 June 2023|access-date=1 February 2024|archive-date=1 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240201164524/https://www.thenewsminute.com/tamil-nadu/actor-vijay-speaks-students-meet-chennai-takes-potshot-political-parties-178622|url-status=live}} On 2 February 2024, Vijay announced the launch of his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).{{cite news |title=Thalapathy Vijay Launches Political Party, Names it Tamizha Vetri Kazhagam (Read Official Statement) |url=https://www.lokmattimes.com/national/thalapathy-vijay-launches-political-party-names-it-tamizha-vetri-kazhagam-a505/ |work=Lokmat Times |date=2 February 2024|access-date=2 February 2024}}{{cite news |last=Desk |first=DH Web |title='Thalapathy' Vijay floats political party, names it 'Thamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam' |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/thalapathy-vijay-announces-his-political-party-thamizaga-vettri-kazhagam-tvk-2876774|access-date=2 February 2024 |date=2 February 2024 |newspaper=Deccan Herald}} Political analysts suggested that the TVK party might undergo expansion to other states of India.{{cite web | last=Daily | first=Keralakaumudi | title='Waiting for Thalapathy's green signal'; Vijay's TVK in Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra | website=Keralakaumudi Daily | date=February 6, 2024 | url=https://keralakaumudi.com/en/news/news.php?id=1243679 | access-date=February 19, 2024}} Vijay deemed the Citizenship Amendment Act 2019 passed by the BJP government as unacceptable as it will disrupt the social religious harmony of the nation.{{cite web |date=February 22, 2019 |title=Tamil Superstar Vijay Calls Citizenship Law CAA "Unacceptable" |url=https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/tamil-superstar-vijay-calls-citizenship-law-caa-unacceptable-5223157 |access-date=March 12, 2024 |website=NDTV.com}}

Personal life

Vijay married Sangeetha, a Sri Lankan Tamil on 25 August 1999.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/five-reasons-why-we-love-vijay/photostory/49378288.cms |title=Five reasons why we love Vijay |newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=25 August 2018|archive-date=26 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826052512/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/five-reasons-why-we-love-vijay/photostory/49378288.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/1998/aug/17ss.htm |title=Rediff On The Net, Movies: Gossip from the southern film industry |work=Rediff |date=17 August 1998|access-date=18 July 2010|archive-date=3 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303181918/http://www.rediff.com/movies/1998/aug/17ss.htm|url-status=live}} They have two children: a son Sanjay who briefly appeared alongside his father in Vettaikaaran, and a daughter Divya who appeared in her father's Theri.{{cite news |date=17 February 2021 |title=Rumour has it! Vijay's son Jason Sanjay to direct the 'Master' actor's film soon |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/rumour-has-it-vijays-son-jason-sanjay-to-direct-the-master-actors-film-soon/articleshow/81042743.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230829085004/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/rumour-has-it-vijays-son-jason-sanjay-to-direct-the-master-actors-film-soon/articleshow/81042743.cms |archive-date=29 August 2023 |access-date=29 August 2023 |newspaper=The Times of India}}{{cite news |date=21 January 2016 |title=Vijay's daughter to make her debut with Theri |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-daughter-to-make-her-debut-with-theri/articleshow/50654152.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231006085241/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijays-daughter-to-make-her-debut-with-theri/articleshow/50654152.cms |archive-date=6 October 2023 |access-date=15 September 2023 |newspaper=The Times of India}}

= Wealth and earnings =

{{As of|2021}}, Vijay's net worth is over {{INR}}420 crore.{{cite web |title=Vijay Net Worth |url=https://www.goldenchennai.com/celebrity/net-worth/vijay-net-worth/|access-date=1 January 2022 |work=Golden Chennai|archive-date=1 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220101183524/https://www.goldenchennai.com/celebrity/net-worth/vijay-net-worth/|url-status=live}} Vijay earned a {{INR}}100 crore salary for Beast and also earned an estimated {{INR}}120 crore—{{INR}}150 crore for Varisu.{{cite news |date=22 June 2021 |title=Thalapathy Vijay turns 47: Luxury cars to hefty pay package, a look at Tamil actor's wealth |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/thalapathy-vijay-turns-47-luxury-cars-to-hefty-pay-package-a-look-at-tamil-actor-s-wealth-101624287592254.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116033433/https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/tamil-cinema/thalapathy-vijay-turns-47-luxury-cars-to-hefty-pay-package-a-look-at-tamil-actor-s-wealth-101624287592254.html|archive-date=16 November 2021|access-date=27 December 2021 |newspaper=Hindustan Times}}{{cite news |title=Vijay confirms 'Thalapathy 66' for highest salary in south? |newspaper=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijay-confirms-thalapathy-66-for-highest-salary-in-south/articleshow/85480625.cms|url-status=live|access-date=29 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210829073537/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijay-confirms-thalapathy-66-for-highest-salary-in-south/articleshow/85480625.cms|archive-date=29 August 2021}} In 2023, he reportedly received a {{INR}}200 crore salary, becoming one of the top paid actors in India.{{cite web |title=Thalapathy Vijay Gets Rs 200 Crore For Next Film, Becomes Highest-paid Indian Actor: Reports |work=News18 |date=29 May 2023 |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/thalapathy-vijay-gets-rs-200-crore-for-next-film-becomes-highest-paid-indian-actor-reports-7947139.html|access-date=July 17, 2023|archive-date=17 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230717090628/https://www.news18.com/movies/thalapathy-vijay-gets-rs-200-crore-for-next-film-becomes-highest-paid-indian-actor-reports-7947139.html|url-status=live}}

On 5 February 2020, the Income Tax Department raided Vijay's residence in Chennai on potential tax evasion and his investments in immovable properties.{{cite news |last=Kandavel |first=Sangeetha |date=6 February 2020 |title=Over ₹77 crore seized from film producer; searches continue at actor Vijay's properties |newspaper=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/over-77-crore-seized-from-film-producer-raids-continue-in-actor-vijays-properties/article30751954.ece|url-access=subscription|access-date=6 February 2020 |issn=0971-751X|archive-date=6 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200206115538/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/over-77-crore-seized-from-film-producer-raids-continue-in-actor-vijays-properties/article30751954.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Rs 65 crore recovered in IT raid from film financer of actor Vijay |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/video-rs-65-crore-recovered-in-it-raid-from-film-financer-of-actor-vijay-2812574|access-date=6 February 2020 |work=DNA India|archive-date=6 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200206175855/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/video-rs-65-crore-recovered-in-it-raid-from-film-financer-of-actor-vijay-2812574|url-status=live}} Later, the officials stated that nothing significant was found during the raid.{{cite news |title=I-T search at Vijay's residence concludes, officials say he has paid all taxes |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/entertainment/2020/03/13/it-search-vijay-residence-conclude-officials-say-he-haspaid-all-taxes.html|access-date=15 March 2020 |work=The Week|archive-date=15 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200315175126/https://www.theweek.in/news/entertainment/2020/03/13/it-search-vijay-residence-conclude-officials-say-he-haspaid-all-taxes.html|url-status=live}} On 13 July 2021, the Madras High Court dismissed a writ petition filed by Vijay in 2012 seeking exemption of the Entry Tax for his Rolls-Royce Ghost car that was imported from the United Kingdom and imposed a fine of {{INR}}1 lakh.{{cite news |last=S. |first=Mohamed Imranullah |date=13 July 2021 |title=Court comes down hard on actor Vijay for seeking tax exemption for his Rolls-Royce Ghost |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/court-comes-down-hard-on-actor-vijay-for-seeking-tax-exemption-for-his-rolls-royce-ghost/article35295852.ece|url-access=subscription|access-date=16 July 2021 |newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=16 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716023450/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/court-comes-down-hard-on-actor-vijay-for-seeking-tax-exemption-for-his-rolls-royce-ghost/article35295852.ece|url-status=live}} On 27 July 2021, a two-judge bench of Madras High court stayed the earlier order.{{cite news |title=Court Relief For Tamil Actor Vijay In Rolls-Royce Case, No Fine For Now |work=NDTV |date=28 June 2021 |url=https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/tax-evasion-vijay-rolls-royce-ghost-court-stays-1-lakh-fine-in-tax-row-over-tamil-actor-vijays-rolls-royce-2495862|access-date=28 July 2021|archive-date=28 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210728013038/https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/tax-evasion-vijay-rolls-royce-ghost-court-stays-1-lakh-fine-in-tax-row-over-tamil-actor-vijays-rolls-royce-2495862|url-status=live}} On 25 January 2022, the court dismissed the critical statements made by the earlier judge and on 15 July 2022, the court declared that no fine shall be imposed.{{cite news |title=Madras High Court Bench Deletes Remarks Made By Single Judge Against Actor Vijay |work=NDTV |date=18 January 2022 |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/hc-bench-deletes-remarks-made-by-single-judge-against-actor-vijay-2729301|access-date=25 January 2022|archive-date=25 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220125153221/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/hc-bench-deletes-remarks-made-by-single-judge-against-actor-vijay-2729301|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Chennai High court closes Vijay's Rolls-Royce case |newspaper=The Times of India |date=15 July 2022 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/chennai-high-court-closes-vijays-rolls-royce-case/articleshow/92894757.cms|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220715152652/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/chennai-high-court-closes-vijays-rolls-royce-case/articleshow/92894757.cms|archive-date=15 July 2022|url-status=live|access-date=15 July 2022}}{{cite news |title=Madras HC relief to actor Vijay in car import case |newspaper=The Hindu |date=15 July 2022 |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/madras-hc-relief-to-actor-vijay-in-car-import-case/article65643041.ece|url-access=subscription|access-date=15 July 2022|archive-date=15 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220715083642/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/madras-hc-relief-to-actor-vijay-in-car-import-case/article65643041.ece|url-status=live}}

Awards and accolades

File:IARA Award R FEmi Odelusi Vijay.jpg

In 1998, Vijay was awarded the Kalaimaamani by the Government of Tamil Nadu and Vijay received an honorary doctorate from the Dr. M.G.R. Educational Institute for of his achievements in the film industry in 2007.{{cite news |title=Vijay gets Doctorate |work=Sify |url=http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-gets-doctorate-news-tamil-kkfuGojaggbsi.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170411012906/http://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-gets-doctorate-news-tamil-kkfuGojaggbsi.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 April 2017|access-date=24 November 2017}} Vijay was awarded the Best International Actor of 2018 in the United Kingdom for his role in Mersal.{{cite web |title=Thalapathy Vijay wins Best International Actor award |work=India Today |date=23 September 2018 |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijay-best-international-actor-iara-awards-2018-1346857-2018-09-23|access-date=31 December 2021|archive-date=31 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211231072713/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijay-best-international-actor-iara-awards-2018-1346857-2018-09-23|url-status=live}} He has received numerous other awards and accolades for his acting.{{cite web |title=Thalapathy Vijay Wins Best Actor Award At Osaka Asian Film Festival In Japan |work=News18 |date=22 May 2023 |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/thalapathy-vijay-wins-best-actor-award-at-osaka-tamil-film-festival-in-japan-7882879.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230522173400/https://www.news18.com/movies/thalapathy-vijay-wins-best-actor-award-at-osaka-tamil-film-festival-in-japan-7882879.html|archive-date=May 22, 2023|url-status=live|access-date=22 May 2023}}{{cite web |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vijay-collects-his-iara-award-mersal-person-93275#:~:text=The%20International%20Achievement%20Recognition%20Awards,gave%20the%20event%20a%20miss. |title=Vijay collects his IARA Award for 'Mersal' in person |date=13 December 2018|access-date=23 December 2020|archive-date=17 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210417121006/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vijay-collects-his-iara-award-mersal-person-93275#:~:text=The%20International%20Achievement%20Recognition%20Awards,gave%20the%20event%20a%20miss.|url-status=live}}

Public image

Referred to as Thalapathy ({{Translation|Commander}}), Vijay has a significant fan following.{{cite magazine |first1=Latha |last1=Srinivasan |date=2022-12-02 |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/30-years-of-superstar-vijay-from-child-artist-to-kollywood-star-thalapathy-vijay-2304322-2022-12-02 |title=30 years of Superstar Vijay: From child artist to Kollywood star Thalapathy Vijay |magazine=India Today|access-date=3 April 2023|archive-date=2 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230402083607/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/30-years-of-superstar-vijay-from-child-artist-to-kollywood-star-thalapathy-vijay-2304322-2022-12-02|url-status=live}}

News 18 describes Vijay as a "versatile actor" and a "fantastic playback singer, dancer and philanthropist".{{cite news |date=22 June 2020 |title=Film facts about versatile actor Thalapathy Vijay |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/happy-birthday-vijay-thuppakki-to-bigil-5-of-thalapathys-biggest-blockbusters-2680957.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220726092912/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/happy-birthday-vijay-thuppakki-to-bigil-5-of-thalapathys-biggest-blockbusters-2680957.html |archive-date=26 July 2022 |access-date=26 July 2022 |work=News18}}{{cite web |date=27 July 2022 |title=Priyamudan and other films of Vijay- Top 20 Best Films of Vijay |url=https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/top-20-best-films-of-vijay/12-priyamudan1998.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220727063556/https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/top-20-best-films-of-vijay/12-priyamudan1998.html |archive-date=27 July 2022 |access-date=27 July 2022 |work=Behindwoods}} He has been praised for his dancing with The Times of India labelling Vijay's dance moves as "energetic and effortless".{{cite news |title=Thalapathy Vijay got some octane dance moves |url=https://odishatv.in/news/entertainment/thalapathy-vijay-got-some-serious-dance-moves-watch-throwback-video-179997 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220728090916/https://odishatv.in/news/entertainment/thalapathy-vijay-got-some-serious-dance-moves-watch-throwback-video-179997 |archive-date=28 July 2022 |access-date=28 July 2022 |work=odisha news}}{{cite news |date=15 October 2015 |title=Vijay's energetic dance moves |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/five-reasons-why-we-love-vijay/photostory/49378314.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712160604/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/five-reasons-why-we-love-vijay/photostory/49378314.cms |archive-date=12 July 2021 |access-date=12 July 2021 |newspaper=The Times of India}}{{cite web |date=Oct 15, 2015 |title=Five reasons why we love Vijay |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/five-reasons-why-we-love-vijay/photostory/49378314.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712160604/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/five-reasons-why-we-love-vijay/photostory/49378314.cms |archive-date=12 July 2021 |access-date=Nov 13, 2022 |work=The Times of India}} He has been praised for his acting skills with Zee Media reporting that "Vijay amazed audiences with his acting and screen presence".{{cite news |last=Shyam |first=Shrudi |date=24 June 2021 |title=Thalapathy Vijay's amazing acting skills |url=https://www.zee5.com/zee5news/thalapathy-vijay-becomes-the-highest-paid-tamil-actor-charges-a-whopping-amount-for-beast |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220808094400/https://www.zee5.com/zee5news/thalapathy-vijay-becomes-the-highest-paid-tamil-actor-charges-a-whopping-amount-for-beast |archive-date=8 August 2022 |access-date=8 August 2022 |work=ZEE5}}

In 2019, a wax figure of Vijay was unveiled in a museum in Kanyakumari.{{cite web |title=Thalapathy Vijay gets an impressive wax statue in Kanyakumari museum |newspaper=The Times of India |date=23 November 2019 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thalapathy-vijay-gets-an-impressive-wax-statue-in-kanyakumari-museum/articleshow/72197457.cms|access-date=3 August 2021|archive-date=3 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210803125147/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/thalapathy-vijay-gets-an-impressive-wax-statue-in-kanyakumari-museum/articleshow/72197457.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Vijay's statue unveiled at Behindwoods Gold Medals |work=Behindwoods |date=11 June 2017 |url=https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/vijays-statue-unveiled-at-behindwoods-gold-medals-2017.html|access-date=3 August 2021|archive-date=15 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515142913/https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/vijays-statue-unveiled-at-behindwoods-gold-medals-2017.html|url-status=live}} In 2023, Vijay secured #8 spot in Eastern Eye magazine among the global celebrities in Asia.{{cite web | last=R | first=Ansgar | title=Vijay secures 8th place among top asian celebrities in eastern eye | website=Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd | date=December 15, 2023 | url=https://tamil.asianetnews.com/gallery/gallery/eastern-eye-top-50-asian-celebrities-thalapathy-vijay-tops-in-10-full-list-ans-s5pao8#image1 | language=ta | access-date=February 18, 2024}}{{cite web | last=Desk | first=DH Web | title=Top 10 Asian celebrities in the world (2023) | website=Deccan Herald | date=2023-12-14 | url=https://www.deccanherald.com/ampstories/entertainment/top-10-asian-celebrities-in-the-world-2023-2810559 | access-date=2024-10-11}}