Bengaluru, Feb 14 (.) Veteran Kannada filmmaker Joe Simon passed away on Friday after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest at 80 years of age. He experienced uneasiness during an executive committee meeting at the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and was rushed to Mallige Hospital, where he could not be saved, according to reports.
Following the news of his demise, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar expressed his condolences, calling Simon’s death an “irreparable loss” to the Kannada film industry.
In a post on X, Shivakumar wrote, “The demise of Joe Simon, the renowned director and comedian of Kannada cinema, due to a heart attack, is a deeply saddening event. Josayman, who had been active in Kannada cinema for decades and hailed from Mandya, had worked in more than 100 films as an actor, director, and lyricist. May God grant eternal peace to his soul and give strength to his family to bear this pain. Om Shanti.”
Expressing grief over his passing, Leader of Opposition R Ashoka recalled Simon’s contribution as an actor, director, and dialogue writer, highlighting his successful films, including Vishnuvardhan’s ‘Sahasa Simha’.
Simon had also served as the Vice President of the Kannada Film Directors Association, Ashoka added on ‘X’.
Minister for Welfare of Backward Classes, Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj Thangadgi, also paid tribute, stating that the Kannada film industry has lost a dynamic and creative director.
Joe Simon carved a distinct identity in Kannada cinema. He directed films such as ‘Mr. Vasu’ (1995), ‘Wanted’ (1993), ‘Ravivarma’ (1992), and ‘Snehada Kadalalli’ (1992).
Joe Simon had served as Vice President of the Kannada Film Directors Association and was widely respected for his contributions to cinema as a filmmaker, actor, and lyricist. His passing leaves a significant void in the industry he served for decades.
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