For a while now, there has been a big debate about who will be the next 'Superstar' after iconic Tamil actor Rajinikanth, with many actors' names being referenced by fans and the media. One name that has stood out among the several big stars in Tamil cinema over the years is 'Thalapathy' Vijay, with many fans on social media claiming him to be the next 'Superstar'. With a lot of chatter of late regarding the 'Superstar' title, veteran actor Prabhu shared his thoughts on the trending topic during a media interaction on Thursday, August 3, in Pondicherry.
Speaking to reporters, Prabhu addressed the big talk surrounding the 'Superstar' title and said, "My elder brother Rajinikanth is the Superstar and the rest of them are 'Super Actors'. They are all good actors. Let Vijay come. What did annan Rajinikanth say? 'I can't remain in the same place. Someone has to come. Let them come.' He's paving the path. Rajinikanth is the 'Superstar'. All the others will come up as super actors and let them rise to that rank." Prabhu added, "If you watch Thevar Magan, once he (Sivaji Ganesan) goes away, chinna Thevar (Kamal Haasan) comes and takes his place. It's similar to that scenario. And, why only Vijay? Brother Ajith is also there. Let them all come." Having starred in films like Guru Sishiyan (1988), Dharmathin Thalaivan (1988), and Chandramukhi (2005) alongside Rajinikanth, Prabhu also produced the cult classic Mannan (1992), which went on to become a major box office success. Likewise, Prabhu also made appearances in key roles alongside Vijay in Theri (2016) and Varisu (2023).
As for Prabhu, the actor who is called 'Ilaya Thilagam' by fans, has had a significant year so far appearing in films like Varisu, Mani Ratnam's Ponniyin Selvan: II, Arya's Kathar Basha Endra Muthuramalingam and Raavana Kottam starring Shanthnu Bhagyaraj. Rajinikanth, on the other hand, is awaiting the release of the highly-anticipated Jailer, which is hitting screens worldwide on August 10. He will also be seen in an extended cameo in his daughter Aishwarya Rajinikanth's next directorial titled Lal Salaam. Rajinikanth is also set to soon begin filming the tentatively titled Thalaivar 170 under Jai Bhim fame T. J. Gnanavel's direction being produced under the Lyca Productions banner. Likewise, Vijay wrapped up filming the much-awaited Leo under Lokesh Kanagaraj's direction, which is scheduled for a grand release on October 19. He is also expected to begin shooting for his next big film, the tentatively titled Thalapathy 68, to be directed by Venkat Prabhu under the AGS Entertainment production banner.