Veteran Malayalam actor and former MP from Chalakudy LS constituency Innocent Vareed Thekkethala passed away at the VPS Lakeshore Hospital in Kochi on Sunday, March 26. He was 75. The iconic actor had been admitted to the hospital after he complained of breathing issues and uneasiness on March 3 and was reportedly not well for some time. The news of Innocent's demise was announced in a medical bulletin issued by the authorities at Lakeshore Hospital that read as follows: "He was under our care and treatment since March 3, 2023. Covid related respiratory issues along with multiple organ failure and a cardiac arrest led to his death." Innocent is survived by his wife and two children.

Innocent made his acting debut in 1972 in the Malayalam film, Nrithasala, and his illustrious career has spanned more than five decades during which he appeared in more than over 750 films. Some of his most notable film roles include Akkare Ninnoru Maran, Dr Pasupathy, Devaasuram, Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Gajakesariyogam, Ramji Rao Speaking, Unnikale Oru Kadha Parayam, Vadakkunokkiyantram, Mazhavil Kavadi, Kilukkam, Nadodikkattu, Mukunthetta Sumitra Vilikkunnu, Kottayam Kunjachan, Peruvannapurathe Visheshangal, Thoovalsparsham, No.20 Madras Mail, Kabooliwala, Sandesham, Vietnam Colony, Adhwaytham, and Keli. Furthermore, Innocent ventured into production and bankrolled films like Ilakkangal, Vida Parayum Munpe, and Ormakkayi, while also serving as the President of Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) for 15 years.

Innocent, who had been diagnosed with cancer a few years ago, had announced that he was cancer-free in 2015. He later went on to address his battles with the illness in his book titled 'Laughter in the Cancer Ward'. Innocent's last major role was in Kaduva starring Prithviraj released in 2022. The legendary Malayalam actor's last big screen appearance will be in the upcoming Fahadh Faasil-starrer Paachuvum Albhuthavilakkum, which is scheduled to release on April 28.

The news of Innocent's demise has come as a big sorrow to Malayalam cinema fans and celebrities, who have been paying their tributes, while also sharing their fond memories with the actor on social media. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan paid his respects to the late actor-politician on Facebook in Malayalam, which translates to: "Innocent always maintained a left-wing mindset. Kerala will remember with gratitude that he became a Lok Sabha candidate at the request of the Left Democratic Front. After winning, he prominently raised Kerala's demands in Parliament."

Malayalam actor Prithivraj Sukumaran wrote on Twitter, "End of an iconic chapter in cinema history! Rest in peace Legend! 🙏💔#Innocent".

Tamil actress-politician Khushbu Sundar tweeted, "Devastated!! We have lost a great actor. Moreso a great human being. What a legend he was. With the passing away of #Innocent Sir, we have lost a priceless gem. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and his followers. Om Shanti 🙏🙏"

Malayalam Actress Manju Warrier posted on Instagram a picture of Innocent along with the caption: "Thank you Innocent brother! For the smiles that were given... Not only on screen, but also in life... #RIP #actorinnocent".