- By Srishti Pandey
- Mon, 13 Jan 2025 07:09 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Vikrant Massey, known for his versatile acting skills, is set to surprise audiences with a villainous role in Rajkumar Hirani’s debut web series, Pritam Pedro. This marks a significant shift for the actor, who has predominantly portrayed heroic and relatable characters throughout his career.
As per a report by PeepingMoon, Massey opted out of playing the lead protagonist and instead chose to play the antagonist in Hirani’s Disney+ Hotstar series. The series, tentatively titled Pritam Pedro, stars Rajkumar Hirani’s son, Vir Hirani and Arshad Warsi in pivotal roles. Vir will portray a tech-savvy police officer, while Warsi plays a seasoned cop with traditional investigative methods. Massey’s decision to take on the villain’s role is said to align with his availability during the shooting schedule.
The series is co-directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Avinash Arun, known for Paatal Lok, and ad filmmaker Amit Satyaveer Singh. Filming is currently underway in Mumbai, with production expected to wrap up by March 2025. This project also marks a milestone for Rajkumar Hirani, as he collaborates with Arshad Warsi nearly 19 years after their iconic Munna Bhai franchise.
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Acclaimed filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, known for his successful Munna Bhai franchise, is set to make his digital debut with a cybercrime thriller series.
— PlayboxTV (@playboxtvapp) August 28, 2024
The upcoming Disney+ Hotstar project, titled Pritam Pedro, will feature Vikrant Massey and Arshad Warsi.#OTTdebut pic.twitter.com/8IAlki74Et
News of Massey’s role has sparked discussions online, with fans questioning his previously announced break from acting. Many users humorously commented on his “retirement,” with one saying, “Vikrant to break le raha tha na acting se, uska kya hua?” (Wasn’t Vikrant taking a break from acting? What happened?). Others compared him to cricketer Shahid Afridi for his “multiple retirements.”
The actor had earlier announced a temporary hiatus to spend time with his family, citing personal reasons. In a heartfelt post, he mentioned wanting to step away until “the time deems right.” However, Massey later clarified that it was merely a well-deserved break. In an interview, he explained, “I want to act for as long as I can. But I felt it was the right time to pause and rejuvenate creatively.”
He also shared the challenges of balancing work and family life. “I got married but couldn’t go on a honeymoon. I barely spent three months with my wife. My son started walking and saying ‘papa,’ but I missed those moments. I saw him grow through photos and videos,” he said.
Despite his brief hiatus, Massey has a packed schedule. He will star in Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan, a love story inspired by Ruskin Bond’s book, alongside Shanaya Kapoor. The actor is also part of Don 3, co-starring Ranveer Singh, with production slated to begin in July 2025.