Initially, Kollywood was dominated by M.K. Thyagaraja Bagavadhar and P. U. Chinnappa in 30's and 40's, then by M. G. Ramachandran and Sivaji Ganesan from 50's till late 70's and later from 80's to till date it was dominated by Rajinikanth and Kamalhassan.
These star have exclusive fanclubs that often resort to violent display of support. Distributors of films of the star are able to arrange financing of film-in-progress from banks and exhibitors without much difficulty.
This club is politically influential as they are able and willing to effect swings in votes in Assembly elections.