Notable for his starring roles in the Tamil films Thenmerku Paruvakaatru (2010), Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom (2012), and Idharkuthane Aasaipattai Balakumara (2013), Sethupathi is also known for his SIIMA Award-winning performance in the 2012 feature Pizza. Before launching his acting career by appearing as an extra in the 2004 movie Ghilli, he earned a bachelor's degree from DB Jain College and considered a career in accounting.