Which Tamil actor flaunted the first six-pack? Vishal answers as Tamil cinema’s fitness debate heats up

A fresh debate has taken over social media regarding who was the first Tamil actor to flaunt a six-pack physique. This discussion was sparked by a comment made during the recent audio launch of 'Retro', a film directed by Karthik Subbaraj starring Suriya and Pooja Hegde. The romantic action drama has already generated good buzz, but it was a speech by Suriya’s father, veteran actor Sivakumar, that caught everyone’s attention and set the internet abuzz.
Fan wars erupt over fitness milestones in Tamil film industry
At the 'Retro' audio launch, Sivakumar proudly stated, “Before my son Suriya, was there any actor in Tamil Nadu who had a six-pack?” His statement ignited strong reactions among fans online. Many began debating the real pioneer of the six-pack trend in Tamil cinema, bringing into the conversation popular stars like Vishal and Dhanush, alongside Suriya. Each fan group passionately argued their favorite actor’s contribution to fitness trends in Tamil movies.
Dhanush, Vishal, and Suriya — The trio at the center of the storm
Fans of Vishal pointed out that he had already showcased a six-pack body in the film 'Satyam' (2008). Meanwhile, Dhanush’s fans quickly reminded everyone that Dhanush had achieved a ripped look for ''Polladhavan'', which was released in 2007. As the debate heated up, it became clear that the six-pack phenomenon in Tamil cinema had multiple claimants, with each actor pushing fitness standards in their own time.
Vishal sets the record straight, Credits Dhanush as the first
Breaking his silence, actor Vishal clarified the matter in his interaction with Galatta by saying, “Dhanush was the first to sport a six-pack for 'Polladhavan'. Later, I worked on my physique for Satyam (2008) and Madha Gaja Raja (2012)." Notably, Dhanush’s 'Polladhavan' released in 2007, while Vishal’s 'Satyam' hit theaters in August 2008, and Suriya’s 'Vaaranam Aayiram' came out in November 2008. The debate, however, has added a nostalgic flavor, celebrating the fitness transformations that defined a new era in Tamil cinema.