Vikrant Massey Says TV Background Led To Bias In Bollywood

MUMBAI-Actor Vikrant Massey has reflected on the stereotypes and discrimination he faced after moving from television to films, saying he was often judged for being a “TV actor” despite his popularity on prime-time television.

Massey recalled that many in the film industry doubted his abilities simply because he came from television.

“When I came from television to films, many people used to say, ‘He is a TV actor, what will he do? He doesn’t know how to work,'” he said.

The National Award-winning actor said a person’s professional or socio-economic background does not determine talent or capability.

“And not just TV, I think if you come from any socio-economic background, that can’t decide whether you are capable or not. It depends on your ability whether you are capable or not. So, I don’t believe at all that where you come from or what your background is,” he added.

Looking back on his more than two-decade journey in the entertainment industry, Massey expressed gratitude for the continued love and support he receives from audiences.

“I think my journey has been blessed. It’s been 20-22 years. Sometimes we sit at home and talk about how many years it has been. I am really grateful that even after so many years, people are taking out their time to watch my old work and spending their money to watch what I am doing,” he said.

Massey said audiences still remember him for his role in ‘Balika Vadhu’ even after 18 years, adding that their faith inspires him to keep telling meaningful stories.

“This is the only thing that gives you the courage to go out there and give it back to people through your stories or through whatever you can do in your limited capacity,” he said.

Massey made his acting debut with Disney Channel India’s ‘Dhoom Machaao Dhoom’ before rising to prominence on television and later establishing himself in films with acclaimed performances in ‘A Death in the Gunj’, ’12th Fail’, ‘Sector 36’ and the ‘Haseen Dillruba’ franchise. He was recently honored with the National Award for his performance in ’12th Fail’.

He will next be seen in the Netflix romantic drama series ‘Musafir Cafe’, which premieres on July 24. (IANS)