Actor Thennavan, who had debuted in films with the Bharathiraja directed 1990 movie En Uyir Thozhan as one of the leads, took a break and was later seen playing supporting roles in films. He made a return with director Saran's Gemini and his role Kai got him recognition.

He was later seen in movies like Jay Jay, Kamal Haasan's Virumandi, Jigarthanda, Sundara Pandian, Sandakozhi and many more movies in supporting roles. The actor had also been planning to make his debut as a director soon.

Thennavan had been acting in a TV serial named Rasathi which was started recently on Sun TV.Yesterday the actor had health issues and was admitted in SRM hospital located in Potheri, and it has been said that the actor had brain paralysis. Reportedly the actor's health is critical and intensive treatment is being given.