Senior Kannada film director Joe Simon passed away in Bengaluru on Friday after suffering a heart attack. He was 80.
He was taken ill and collapsed while attending an executive committee meeting of the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce in Bengaluru. He was immediately admitted to the nearby Mallige Hospital for treatment. However, he succumbed soon after.
From Mandya
Hailing from Mandya, Joe Simon was born in 1946. He entered the Kannada film industry in 1967. He had worked as an actor, director and lyricist in over 100 films. His major films included Sahasa Simha, Simha Jodi, Hongkongnalli Agent, Amar, Snehada Kadalali, Ravi Varma, Maha Prachandaru and Time Bomb.
Joe Simon started directing films in 1977, and Ondu Premada Kathe, was his first film. He was a close friend of late veteran actors Vishnuvardhan and Ambareesh, with whom he worked in big hits such as Sahasa Simha, Maha Prachandaru and Hong Kongnalli Agent Amar.
Condolence
Celebrities from the Kannada film industry have expressed their condolences over the passing away of Joe Simon.
Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Thangadagi said in his condolence message that he had directed more than 30 films. “He had given a chance to many new talents and introduced technicians and has made a huge contribution to the Kannada film industry. The Kannada film industry has lost a dynamic and creative director,” said the Minister.
Published – February 13, 2026 11:38 pm IST
