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Manjot Singh said that while the industry has been kind to him, he seeks to break free of the image of a comedy actor and wishes to explore more serious roles.
Manjot Singh was last seen in Wild Wild Punjab. (Photo Credit: X)
Manjot Singh, fondly remembered as Lali in Fukrey, has been a part of many comedy films, including Dream Girl, Student of the Year, and the recent Wild Wild Punjab. Since making his debut in the 2008 film Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!, the actor has recently completed 15 years in Bollywood. During a recent interview, he reflected on his journey so far and shared that while the industry has been kind to him, he seeks to break free from the image of a comedy actor and explore more serious roles.
In a conversation with Times Entertainment, he said, “I want to try new things. I want to do so much. I feel the industry has only seen one side of mine. I have so much more to show. That is only possible when I get something new. I am (still) waiting.”
Talking about his comedy roles so far, the actor said, “I am not a comedy actor. In fact. I don’t know how to do comedy. I have been lucky. I just know the timing. I am not a comedian; I am a serious actor.”
Shedding light on the industry’s dynamics, he explained that it is common for actors and directors to be typecast, making it challenging to break this perception. He shared his thoughts, saying, “Forget actors, even directors face the same thing. If they have made a comedy film, producers don’t offer them a serious film. They want the director to give them a hit film. You need to convince the makers.”
Later in the conversation, Manjot also revealed how he had almost landed the negative role of a bully in late actor Sushant Singh’s Chhichhore but things didn’t work out at the last minute. He said, “I felt bad when it didn’t work out. It was a good film, my role was not a comedic one. That is the only film I regret losing.”
The 32-year-old actor has consistently spoken out against stereotypes. In an earlier interview, he revealed how he has spent years convincing filmmakers to offer him serious roles. He praised actor and singer Diljit Dosanjh for showing that Sikh actors can excel in serious performances. He was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times, “It is not necessary to show Sikhs in a light hearted or comic role, they can do serious roles as well. Diljit Dosanjh is a huge example for everyone.”
