Securing 108 seats in the 2026 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election, C. Joseph Vijay broke a political duopoly that had governed the state for nearly fifty years. Since May 2026, he has served as the ninth Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, marking a formal transition from a career as one of India's most prominent film actors.
Early life and background
Born in Chennai on 22 June 1974 to film director S. A. Chandrasekhar and playback singer Shoba, Vijay grew up in an environment shaped by the arts. He attended Fathima school in Kodambakkam and Balalok school in Virugambakkam. Although he enrolled at Loyola College to pursue a bachelor's degree in visual communication, he ended his formal education early to prioritize his cinematic ambitions.
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Vijay debuted as a child performer in 1984 before appearing in his first lead role in the 1992 film Naalaiya Theerpu. Over several decades, his work evolved from romantic dramas like Poove Unakkaga and Thullatha Manamum Thullum to high-grossing action films such as Ghilli, Pokkiri, and 2024's The Greatest of All Time. His performance in Kadhalukku Mariyadhai earned him his first Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actor, while his status as a leading star led to numerous industry honors, including a Kalaimamani award and multiple SIIMA accolades.
Entry into governance
In 2009, Vijay established the Vijay Makkal Iyakkam, a social welfare organization that facilitated his transition from screen roles to public service. By February 2024, he announced his retirement from acting to found the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. Running on a platform defined as secular and egalitarian, the party challenged existing political structures, resulting in his swearing-in as Chief Minister on 10 May 2026.
Fast facts
- Born: 22 June 1974, Chennai
- Political Party: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam
- Current Position: Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu
- Education: Loyola College
- 1998 Award: Kalaimamani
- 2007 Award: Honorary doctorate
- Election Year: 2026
Questions readers ask
When did C. Joseph Vijay become Chief Minister?
He was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on 10 May 2026.
What was the result of the 2026 Legislative Assembly election for his party?
His party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, secured 108 seats, becoming the single-largest party in the assembly.
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