Remembering Shelly Desai: A Tribute to a Versatile Character Actor
Shelly Desai, a talented character actor known for his roles in popular TV series like It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Men of A Certain Age, passed away at the age of 90 in Los Angeles. He was born in Bombay, British India, and later moved to the United States to pursue a career in acting. Desai's career spanned several decades, with appearances on Broadway, Off Broadway, and in various TV shows and films. He was known for his versatile acting skills and memorable performances in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Desai's screen credits include roles in shows like St. Elsewhere, Hill Street Blues, ER, Friends, and Curb Your Enthusiasm. He also lent his voice to the animated series Where On Earth Is Carmen Sandiego? and made a guest appearance on Star Trek: The Next Generation. Desai's most notable roles were as Carlos in Men of a Certain Age and as Hwang in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, where he portrayed a menacing landlord.
In addition to his TV work, Desai also appeared in several films, including Thelma & Louise, Toys, and Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. He continued to work in the industry until shortly before his passing, filming commercials for AT&T. Desai is survived by his wife Phyllis, stepdaughters April and Dawn, and grandchildren Sean, Sofia, and Dylan. His legacy as a talented actor and beloved family man will be remembered by fans and loved ones alike.