Kannada actor-producer Dileep Raj passes away due to heart attack at 47

Popular actor and film producer, Dileep Raj died from a cardiac arrest on May 13, 2026. He is remembered for his work in Love Mocktail 3, Milana, U Turn and more.

Updated on May 22, 2026  |  12:43 PM IST |  1.1M
Kannada actor-producer Dileep Raj passes away due to heart attack at 47
PC: Dileep Raj on Instagram

Trigger Warning: This article mentions death, which could be triggering to some.

The Kannada entertainment industry is in a state of mourning following the sudden and untimely demise of popular actor and producer Dileep Raj. The 47-year-old actor reportedly breathed his last in the early hours of Wednesday, May 13, 2026, after suffering massive cardiac arrest at his Bengaluru residence.

Dileep Raj no more

The update of the sudden demise of Dileep Raj has sent shockwaves through Sandalwood. Dileep, who was actively promoting his latest work, Love Mocktail 3, recently reportedly suffered a heart attack. The actor was rushed to the hospital; however, he could not be saved.

Soon after the tragic demise of the actor, several celebs and fans took to social media to mourn the loss. Among them was Kantara: Chapter 1 actor and director Rishab Shetty. He shared a heartfelt tribute mourning Dileep’s demise and praising him as a skilled professional and fundamentally good person.


Dileep Raj’s career was rooted in the stage, but soon he transitioned to television and gained popularity with the serial Janani. Some of his other TV stints include Ardha Satya, Rangoli, Kumkuma Baghya, Mangalya, Malebillu, Preetigaagi, and Rathasapthami. However, it was his transition to the big screen that made him a household name.

From playing the lead in the 2005 film Boy Friend to delivering standout performances in acclaimed films like U-Turn and Orchestra Mysuru, Dileep proved his range as a character artist. Raj’s breakthrough came with his role in the 2007 blockbuster, Milana, starring alongside Puneeth Rajkumar.

Beyond acting, he was a respected dubbing artist who lent his voice for Chetan Kumar in the cult classic gangster, Aa Dinagalu. He didn't just limit himself to acting; he turned producer under his banner, DR Creations, producing popular shows like Paaru and Naa Ninna Bidalaare.

His final social media post was a heartfelt plea to fans to support his film, Nimma Vasthugalige Neeve Javaabdaararu, which was released earlier this year. He was reportedly part of the highly anticipated Love Mocktail 3. Dileep Raj is survived by his wife, Nanditha, and their family.

For more updates, stay tuned to Pinkvilla!

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