Shahid Kapoor Discusses Balancing Stardom Between Cinema and OTT Platforms
The actor reflects on his OTT debut with ‘Farzi’ and the theatrical release of ‘Deva’, emphasizing the importance of maintaining equilibrium in his career choices.
Since his 2003 debut in “Ishq Vishk,” Shahid Kapoor has established himself as a prominent figure in Hindi cinema. Over the years, he has delivered several notable performances, and in 2023, he ventured into the digital space with his OTT debut in “Farzi,” an action-packed crime thriller directed by Raj and DK.
In a recent interview, Kapoor addressed concerns about whether frequent appearances on OTT platforms might dilute an actor’s stardom. He clarified, “I have done only one show for a popular streaming platform. If I had done a lot of shows, I would agree with what you’re saying.” He emphasized that OTT offers a different kind of opportunity, and as a creative individual, his primary focus is on providing audiences with exceptional experiences. He added, “I think ‘Farzi’ has added a lot for me as an actor. It has introduced me to a new audience, and so does a movie of mine. Both have their own place.” Kapoor believes in striking a balance between the two mediums to avoid overexposure.
Kapoor’s latest film, “Deva,” an action thriller directed by Rosshan Andrrews in his Hindi debut, was released in cinemas on January 31, 2025. The film also stars Pooja Hegde as the female lead, along with Pavail Gulati, Kubbra Sait, and others.
Looking ahead, Kapoor is set to collaborate with director Vishal Bhardwaj in an upcoming project tentatively titled “Arjun Ustara.” Describing the film, Kapoor shared, “It’s inherently a love story set against the backdrop of Mumbai gangsters in the ’90s.” The film features Triptii Dimri in the lead role, with Nana Patekar, Randeep Hooda, and Vikrant Massey also part of the ensemble cast.
As Shahid Kapoor continues to navigate between traditional cinema and digital platforms, he remains committed to delivering diverse and engaging performances, ensuring that he maintains a harmonious balance in his career trajectory.
