The number one hero in Tamil Nadu, based on current popularity, market value, box office performance, and fan following, is widely considered to be Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, popularly known as Vijay or "Thalapathy" (Commander). He is the highest-paid actor in Tamil cinema and has a massive fan base globally. Vijay has delivered numerous blockbuster hits like "Mersal," "Thuppakki," and "Leo," with "Leo" being one of the highest-grossing Tamil films worldwide. He has won multiple awards and is recognized for his versatile acting, dance skills, and charismatic screen presence
. Other legendary and popular actors in Tamil Nadu include Rajinikanth, Ajith Kumar ("Thala"), and Kamal Haasan, but Vijay currently leads in terms of market value and popularity among the younger generation and mainstream audiences
. In summary, Vijay is regarded as the number one hero in Tamil Nadu today.
