Kochu Preman, the veteran Malayalam actor, passed away on Saturday. He was 67. 

According to reports, he breathed his last at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram, where he was admitted after complaining of discomfort.

Born as KS Premkumar on June 1, 1955, in Thiruvananthapuram, he was popularly known by his stage name Kochu Preman. He had acted in hundreds of films mostly in supporting and comedy roles and ventured into Television as well. Before entering films, Preman had worked in drama troupes such as Kalidasa Kalakendram, Kerala Theaters, and Sanghachethana. A milestone in his theatre career was when he acted in Jwalamukhi, a play by veteran director late Jagathi NK Achary. He made his debut in films with the 1979 film Ezhu Nirangal.

Later, in 1996, he first collaborated with filmmaker Rajasenan for Dilliwala Rajakumaran. Then, he went on to act in 7 more films directed by Rajasenan. He was known for his performances in films like Kalyanaraman (2002), Thenkasipattanam (2000), Thommanum Makkalum (2005), Paappi Appacha (2010) and Marykkundoru Kunjaadu (2010), among several others. He recently acted in films like Kaduva and The Priest.

Meanwhile, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed his condolence on the actor's demise. "He handled comedy and serious roles with ease. He had presented characters that were recognised at the national level," his statement read. Preman is survived by his wife and TV actor Girika and son Harikrishnan.