Born as Antony in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, S. A. Ashokan is an Indian film actor who is best remembered for his portrayal of negative and villainous roles in the Tamil film industry. Being an exceptional orator and writer since his childhood, Ashokan participated in several stage plays during his school and college days, which eventually paved his way into the movies. Upon completing his studies from St. Joseph College, he approached director T. R. Ramanna, who suggested that he take up the stage name of Ashokan.

He started his career with a rather small role in the historical drama Avvaiyar in 1953, following which he featured in movies like Ethir Parathathu, Doctor Savithri, Rambayin Kadhal, and Athisaya Penn. However, it was his performance in the 1961 drama Kappalottiya Thamizhan that garnered him immense praise from the audience. Mainly remembered for playing the villain, Ashokan had essayed the negative character in over 59 movies in his career.

Some of Ashokan`s most noteworthy performances were seen in movies like Vallavanukku Vallavan, Karnan, Ulagam Sutrum Valiban, Kandan Karunai, Veera Thirumagan, Attukara Alamelu, Adimai Penn, Anbe Vaa, Kaanji Thalaivan, Vivasayee, and Raman Thediya Seethai. In 1982, the veteran actor passed away at the age of 52 due to a heart attack.