Recent revelations from actor Silambarasan TR, popularly known as Simbu, have sent ripples of excitement and surprise across the Tamil film industry. Addressing swirling rumors, Simbu has clarified that he is not transgender, but will embark on a groundbreaking artistic journey by portraying a transgender character in his milestone 50th film, tentatively titled STR 50. This bold move marks a significant departure for the mainstream star, showcasing his commitment to challenging and unconventional roles.
Adding to the intrigue, veteran actor and producer Kamal Haasan has shed light on the film’s complex development. During promotions for Thug Life (in which Simbu also co-stars), Kamal Haasan confirmed that his production house, Raaj Kamal Films International, had initially planned to produce STR 50 with director Desingh Periyasamy. However, Kamal Haasan stated that the project was temporarily set aside as Simbu’s involvement was prioritized for Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life. He praised STR 50’s script as a “beautiful story.”
In a subsequent development, Simbu himself announced that he would be producing STR 50 under his own banner, Atman Cine Arts, explaining his desire for uncompromised creative control. He also shared a fascinating detail: he approached Kamal Haasan for guidance on authentically portraying the transgender character, highlighting the veteran’s invaluable expertise in nuanced performances. This collaboration between mentor and protégé underscores the film’s dedication to sensitivity and depth.
With Desingh Periyasamy at the helm and Yuvan Shankar Raja composing the music, STR 50 is poised to be a cinematic spectacle. Before diving fully into this transformative role, Simbu will be seen in Thug Life, slated for a July 5, 2025 release, followed by STR 49 in January 2026. The announcement of his 50th film’s daring premise has undoubtedly heightened anticipation, with fans eagerly awaiting what promises to be a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience.