Sampath Raj is a seasoned Indian actor known for his commanding screen presence and versatility across South Indian cinema. Born on December 25, 1968, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, he was raised in a military family and spent his formative years across various Indian cities, including Bengaluru and Delhi. Despite early resistance from his family toward a film career, Sampath pursued his passion for acting, eventually making his mark in the industry.

He began his cinematic journey with Kannada films like Preethi Prema Pranaya (2003) and gained recognition in Tamil cinema with Neranja Manasu (2004). However, it was his roles in Venkat Prabhu’s cult trilogy—Chennai 600028, Saroja, and Goa—that cemented his reputation as a powerful character actor. Often cast in negative or authoritative roles, Sampath brought depth and nuance to antagonists, earning accolades such as the Nandi Award and SIIMA Award for his performance in Mirchi (2013).

Fluent in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, Sampath has appeared in over 100 films across languages, including Jilla, Srimanthudu, Kaala, Adanga Maru, and Custody. His television work includes appearances in Malgudi Days and web series like Anantham and Vyavastha.

In 2025, he stars alongside Priyamani in Good Wife, a Tamil legal drama adapted from the American series, directed by Revathy. The show marks a significant OTT debut for both the actor and director, blending global storytelling with regional flavor.

Beyond acting, Sampath has also dabbled in direction and writing, and is known for his grounded personality and commitment to craft. Despite his intimidating on-screen persona, he remains a thoughtful artist who values storytelling over stardom. With decades of experience and a steady stream of impactful roles, Sampath Raj continues to be a formidable force in Indian cinema.