‘The Family Man 3’ Actor Sunil Thapa Passes Away at 68 Following Heart Attack

Sunil Thapa, a legendary figure in both Nepali and Indian cinema, passed away on Saturday morning following a heart attack. He was 68 years old. Thapa was taken to the hospital unconscious, according to reports from Norvic Hospital in Thapathali. He was pronounced dead at 7:44 AM despite the medical team's best efforts.

Sunil Thapa, a new Indian Hollywood star, successfully bridged the gap between regional Nepali cinema and Bollywood. The Bollywood Quest: Thapa made his debut in Hindi cinema with the 1981 film Ek Duuje Ke Liye. He gained significant national recognition for his role as the boxing coach in the Priyanka Chopra-starrer 'Mary Kom' (2014), portraying a steadfast and inspirational character that earned him a Filmfare nomination.

The Family Man 3

At the time, Thapa had completed filming for the highly anticipated third season of the hit spy-thriller series 'The Family Man', starring Manoj Bajpayee. He had to share the screen with someone who was also not born in the digital age a reality in the "Raj & DK" universe. 

Nepali Legend

As a superstar in his native Nepal, he was known as "Ratey Kaila," a nameless but terrifying antagonist character from the film "Chino," who was instrumental in revitalizing the role of the villain in Nepal. Photojournalism and Silver Screen: Before becoming a film icon, Thapa led a much more complex life.

He worked as a photojournalist for JS Magazine, covering the coronation of the King of Bhutan in 1974. He was a professional football player in Mumbai, playing for clubs like ICL and Orkay's Sports Club before his modeling career led him to acting. The film community has been shaken by the news of his death.

"Sunil Thapa wasn't just an actor; he was a master of his craft, able to command the camera with just a look," said a colleague from the Family Man production team. "His energy on set was infectious, even at 68." The Nepal Film Artists Association is deeply mourning, stating that the industry has lost its "tallest pillar."

Thapa’s family members, who reside in Mumbai, are expected to arrive in Kathmandu by Sunday for the final rites.

Selected Filmography