Shelly H. Desai
American actor
Shelly H. Desai, a prolific American character actor whose career spanned over five decades in film, television, and theater, passed away on February 10, 2026, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 90. Born Shailesh H. Desai in Bombay, British India, on December 3, 1935, he became a familiar and respected presence in Hollywood, known for his versatile performances and distinctive demeanor.
Desai initially moved to the United States in the 1960s to pursue a master's degree in engineering, a path he soon diverged from to follow his passion for acting. He honed his craft on the stage, appearing in numerous Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, including notable works such as "At the Hawk's Well," "Jungle of Cities," and "A Talent for Murder." His dedication to theater earned him critical acclaim, including the prestigious 1991 Drama-Logue Award for Outstanding Lead Performance for his role in "The Wedding."
His transition to screen acting began with a role in Brian De Palma's 1974 rock musical "Phantom of the Paradise." Desai's extensive filmography includes appearances in acclaimed movies such as "Thelma & Louise" (1991), "Toys" (1992), "Escape from L.A." (1996), "Here Comes the Boom" (2012), and "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" (2015).
Desai became particularly recognizable for his memorable television roles. He had a recurring part as Carlos in the TNT dramedy "Men of a Certain Age" from 2009 to 2011 and was widely known for his portrayal of Hwang, the often-hassled landlord, in the hit sitcom "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." His television credits also include guest appearances on beloved series such as "Star Trek: The Next Generation," "St. Elsewhere," "Hill Street Blues," "ER," "Curb Your Enthusiasm," "Friends," "NYPD Blue," and "Ugly Betty."
Shelly Desai's career was marked by his ability to bring authenticity and depth to a wide range of supporting and guest roles, making him a cherished figure among audiences and colleagues alike. He is survived by his beloved wife, Phyllis, his stepdaughters April and Dawn, and his grandchildren Sean, Sofia, and Dylan. His legacy as a dedicated and versatile actor will be fondly remembered by his family, friends, and the countless viewers he entertained throughout his distinguished career.