Abhishek Banerjee, renowned for his role in the horror-comedy film Stree 2, experienced a significant career setback prior to his recent success. The film features an impressive cast, including Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, and Pankaj Tripathi, all receiving accolades for their performances. However, it was Abhishek’s character, ‘Jana’, that has been identified as the heart of the movie. Despite this success, Abhishek faced a challenging period six years ago, where he fell into depression due to being typecast in his roles after the first installment of Stree.
The Struggles of Typecasting
In a recent interview with News18 Showsha, Abhishek opened up about his experience of being stereotyped after his appearance in Stree. He revealed that post the film’s release, he was only offered similar roles. Abhishek expressed his frustration, stating that casting directors began to view him solely as a comedic actor, leading to a lack of diverse opportunities. His role as ‘Jana’ created a memorable impression, yet it also restricted his possibilities, box him into a specific category of colorful characters.
The Onset of Depression
Abhishek further discussed how the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated his feelings of hopelessness. He felt confined to a particular image and that no other roles would come his way. Luckily, during this dark phase, he received an offer for the role of Hathoda Tyagi in the Netflix series Paatal Lok. This character not only shifted the industry’s perception of him but also brought him widespread recognition and acclaim.
Reviving His Career
The portrayal of Hathoda Tyagi opened doors for a wider range of roles for Abhishek. Fans began to call him and express their admiration for his acting skills, encouraging him to take on more varied characters. He now receives offers for psycho roles and is making a case for his versatility as an actor, eager to prove that he can excel in dramatic and romantic roles as well.
Box Office Success of Stree 2
Amidst this personal journey, Abhishek has also made significant strides professionally. Beyond Stree 2, he is seen in another project, Veda, released simultaneously. However, while Stree 2 has garnered notable success at the box office, earning ₹341 crores in India and surpassing ₹400 crores globally, Veda has not received the same acclaim. According to analysts, the film Stree 2 is expected to continue generating considerable revenue, especially during its second weekend showing.
A Bright Future Ahead
With his talent and determination, Abhishek Banerjee is poised for a promising future in the industry. His journey illustrates the importance of resilience and the need for diverse representations in cinema. As he continues to push boundaries and challenge typecasting, audiences can expect to see him take on an array of captivating roles that showcase his range as an actor.
Conclusion
Abhishek’s story is a testament to the struggles many actors face in navigating typecasting and the impact it can have on mental health. His successful comeback through roles like ‘Hathoda Tyagi’ and ‘Jana’ highlights his talent and ability to evolve as an artist. As Stree 2 continues to break box office records, it serves as a reminder of his resilience and the bright pathways ahead for his career.
