Alappuzha: Veteran actor Punnapra Appachen (Alphonse), fondly known as the “superstar of small roles”, passed away on Monday. He was 77.

Appachen acted in more than 1,000 films across Malayalam, Hindi and Tamil cinema. He made his debut in Othenante Makan, starring Sathyan, and went on to leave his mark in a wide range of memorable films, including Anubhavangal Paalichakal, Anantharam, Njan Gandharvan, Mathilukal, Sangham, Adhikaram, The King, Jalolsavam, Kaduvva and Swargathile Katturumbu. His career spanned generations, from acting alongside Prem Nazir to sharing screen space with younger actors such as Dhyan Sreenivasan.

In Hindi cinema, he appeared in Duniya, playing the role of a police officer who arrests Dilip Kumar. He also acted in Tamil films, including Vijay’s Suraa. His final on-screen appearance was in Suresh Gopi’s Ottakomban.

Though he was often cast in villainous roles, Appachen was equally admired for his versatility. His portrayal of the Chief Minister in The King was particularly notable. He also featured in five films directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan.

Outside cinema, Appachen worked as an LIC agent and is said to have been a six-time crorepati. He was the son of A.C. Jeromekutty and Mariyamma of Arasharkadavil, Punnapra. He lived at Arasharkadavil house in Thampakachuvadu, Mannancherry, Alappuzha.

He is survived by his wife, Marykutty, and their children, Antony Jerome and Alice Alphonse.