Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

‘Under the Bridge’: Archie Panjabi shares why her new show is ‘shocking’

The show premiered on Hulu for US viewers on April 17, starting with two episodes. New episodes will be released every week.

‘Under the Bridge’: Archie Panjabi shares why her new show is ‘shocking’

Under the Bridge, based on the disappearance of Reena Virk, is currently streaming on Hulu.

Archie Panjabi, who plays a pivotal role in the show, said that the true crime drama made her feel like she has been “punched in the stomach.”


She told a publication, “Because I had never heard of this terrible tragedy. I was really shocked. And of course, being from the same cultural background as that family, I felt it was an important story that I wanted to be part of. The character was completely out of my comfort zone…but, I was excited to sink my teeth into something that I’ve never done before.”

She added, “Why did a group of teenagers do what they did to that poor young girl? That’s a question of the whole show. It’s certainly something I felt, why did nobody speak up? I think that’s something that will hopefully get people talking and start a conversation about things like bullying and harassment.”

In 1997, Virk - a 14-year-old Indian girl in Canada - disappeared after attending a party, only found to be murdered. The murder that took place in British Columbia in the late 90s made widespread headlines.

The Canadian-Punjabi teenager attended a party with friends but was later attacked. She was tortured, burned with cigarettes and beaten. Although she initially escaped, two people followed her and attacked her again, ultimately drowning her to death.

In addition to Panjabi, Under the Bridge also stars Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone in prominent roles.

The show premiered on Hulu for US viewers on April 17, starting with two episodes. New episodes will be released every week.

More For You

Chetan Bhagat

Chetan Bhagat says some Bollywood actors cannot enjoy a meal unless photographers spot them

Getty Images

Author Chetan Bhagat says the obsession with fame is harming Bollywood actors' mental health

Highlights:

  • Bhagat says some stars can’t enjoy meals if not photographed.
  • Author calls Bollywood a “drug house of fame.”
  • He left movies to focus on writing and moved to Dubai.
  • Sees industry as insecure, with friendships mostly transactional.
  • Believes creating stories gives him more satisfaction than films.

Chetan Bhagat says fame in Bollywood can take a serious toll on mental health. The bestselling author, whose novels like 3 Idiots and Kai Po Che! became major films, explained that many actors and directors struggle when their work doesn’t succeed. “There are actors who, when going to a restaurant, if they aren’t recognised, don’t enjoy the meal. They wonder, ‘No one came to click photos?’ Can you imagine what a sick life that is?” he said.

Bhagat added that the pressure of attention and constant public scrutiny can worsen insecurity. He recalled seeing stars fade over time, their mental health affected by the highs and lows of fame.

Keep ReadingShow less