The film ‘Animal’, released in 2023, saw Bobby Deol’s triumphant return to the limelight. He played the villain, and despite limited screen time, he captivated viewers. But how did this role, which significantly boosted his career, come about?
Deol’s career began with a successful debut in ‘Barsaat’ in 1995, followed by roles in films like ‘Soldier’ and ‘Gupt’. However, his career faced a downturn. He struggled in Bollywood, often associated with unsuccessful films. But a single image would redefine his path.
Even amidst box office disappointments, Deol remained in the film industry. Opportunities were limited before ‘Animal’ and the ‘Aashram’ series. He hoped to revive his career, and the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer ‘Animal’ provided that opportunity. His casting in the film was the result of a photograph from the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL), where he was seen with a distinctive long-haired, bearded look. Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga cast him based on this photograph.
Sandeep Reddy Vanga saw something intriguing in Deol’s image, an unspoken depth in his eyes. Vanga sought a villain for his film, a quest that ended with Deol’s cricket match picture, a choice that proved successful at the box office.
‘Animal’ went on to gross over 900 crore rupees worldwide, becoming a massive hit. This success opened doors to many projects for Deol. He then featured in the 350 crore film ‘Kanguva’ and is now expected to star in a series directed by Aryan Khan, the son of Shah Rukh Khan. He might also be a part of Alia Bhatt’s film, ‘Alpha’.