According to reports, Lara Dutta has signed on to topline the Indian remake of the successful American television comedy-drama series Casual for Starz and Lionsgate Play in India and South Asia.
Joining the former Miss Universe on the cast of the series will be actor Prateik Babbar. Kunal Kohli, who is best known for helming Hum Tum (2004) and Fanaa (2006), has been entrusted with the directorial responsibilities.
Lionsgate Television Group chairman Kevin Beggs told an international publication, “The launch of Lionsgate Play’s first slate of original series in India is the next logical step in the continued rapid growth of the platform. Our ability to kick-off the Lionsgate Play original slate with the remake of a great intellectual property like Casual, with a renowned director and world-class stars, shows what we can achieve through the continued collaboration of our Starz, Lionsgate Television, and Lionsgate India businesses.”
Casual, which premiered on October 7, 2015, on Hulu, revolves around Valerie (Michaela Watkins), a newly divorced single mother living with her brother Alex (Tommy Dewey) and her daughter Laura (Tara Lynne Barr). The fourth and final season of the series released in mid-2018.
Lara Dutta made her digital debut with Hotstar Specials’ cop-drama Hundred (2020). The show received good response from the audience and is expected to return with season two in 2021.
Prateik Babbar, on the other hand, is waiting for the release of his next film Mumbai Saga. The gangster-drama, directed by Sanjay Gupta, also stars John Abraham and Emraan Hashmi. It is set to release on March 19. His other projects include Brahmastra, India Lockdown, and Bachchan Pandey.
Keep visiting this space over and again for more updates and reveals from the world of entertainment.
R Madhavan shares his experience portraying a father’s role for the first time alongside Ajay Devgn.
Actor addresses rumours about de-ageing technology, confirming he relied on diet and fitness instead.
Madhavan reflects on sequels and preparation for previous physically demanding roles like Saala Khadoos.
Nervous about a father’s role
At the trailer launch of De De Pyaar De 2, R Madhavan admitted he was initially nervous about playing Ajay Devgn’s on-screen father-in-law.
“I have never done a father’s role before, and competing with Ajay, I was very nervous,” Madhavan said. “I have seen other actors who are so busy when they come to the set, but Ajay sir is always present and dedicated. We have always felt connected.”
The actor also commented on the appeal of sequels. Devgn, who stars alongside Madhavan, stated, “I don’t mind sequels as long as there is a good script. I hope the film is liked by audiences. We all believe we have made a good film.”
Madhavan addressed recent rumours about de-ageing technology in his films, stating, “They’ve all been accusing me of de-ageing, but I don’t think I have the budget for that. It hasn’t happened.”
Instead, the actor relies on traditional methods of preparation, including fitness and diet adjustments, to meet the physical demands of roles.
Reflections on past roles
Madhavan reflected on the preparation for his earlier role in Saala Khadoos, a physically demanding sports drama. “When I went to train for Saala Khadoos, I consulted numerous dieticians and several people who advised me on how to lose weight and get fit, what diet to follow, what time to eat, and so on, but I couldn’t find anyone I truly resonated with,” he said.
The actor’s candid reflections reveal a focus on dedication and personal preparation rather than technological shortcuts, highlighting his commitment to authentic performances.
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