Pankaj Tripathi Transcends OTT Stereotype, Asserts Versatility Across Platforms

Renowned for his unparalleled talent, Pankaj Tripathi continues to stand out as one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors of his era. His prowess spans across diverse genres, effortlessly leaving an indelible mark in comedy, thriller, and drama alike. Yet, it was his unforgettable portrayals in web series such as “Mirzapur” and “Sacred Games” that propelled him to the zenith of fame.

Despite earning immense love and acclaim for his roles in non-traditional theatrical releases like “Mimi,” Pankaj Tripathi found himself typecast as an OTT actor by many. However, in a recent revelation, Tripathi candidly addressed this perception, indicating its evolution over time.

In an interview with Hindustan Times, the eminent figure in the entertainment industry expressed his delight at breaking free from the confines of the OTT actor stereotype, which gained prominence during the pandemic-induced lockdown. Tripathi underscored the surge in popularity of web series like “Mirzapur” during the COVID-19 lockdown when cinemas remained shuttered.

The closure of theaters led to the release of several successful films like “Gunjan Saxena,” “Mimi,” “Ludo,” and “Kaagaz” on streaming platforms, further cementing the association with OTT platforms.

Tripathi emphasized that while he acknowledges his significant presence on OTT platforms, his artistry transcends beyond digital mediums. Despite his prominent roles in popular OTT content, he pointed towards his forthcoming projects such as “OMG2,” “Fukrey 3,” and “Metro…In Dino,” showcasing his versatility across various mediums.

Confidently asserting his departure from being solely labeled as an OTT actor, Tripathi stated, “Ab normal hogaya hai, I am not just tagged as an OTT actor now; vo image nahi hai ab,” underscoring the evolution of his professional identity.

Tripathi’s project selection process isn’t confined by the platform, as he explained, “I don’t consciously balance projects across platforms. I have several ongoing franchises, so I prioritize them. I go with the flow while choosing projects.” Currently, he is immersed in preparing for his roles in upcoming film franchises, including “Fukrey 3” and “Stree 2.”

As cinemas gradually reopen and a semblance of normalcy returns, Tripathi remains optimistic about the potential of new films to lure audiences back to theaters. He believes that the current lineup of films possesses the allure to reignite the audience’s passion for the theatrical experience.