Sunil Grover: Hope people accept my non-comic role in ‘Gabbar’

Best known for playing Gutthi on Comedy Nights with Kapil, Sunil Grover has now not only shed his female avatar but also his comic image in Gabbar is Back, where he will be playing a cop.

The 37-year-old actor says he did not consciously decide to have an image makeover but is nervous about the reaction of the audience to his experiment in the Akshay Kumar-starrer.

“I am playing a policeman in the film. I did not do it on purpose. I didn’t have a plan that I have to change my image and do a different role. It just happened. I am not worried, I am rather nervous. I have been playing a girl on national TV for a long time. So, first being accepted in a man’s role is a worry for me,” Grover said.

“I am confident because when I first did Gutthi’s role people told me that it was not going to work. But I did it with conviction and it became a success. I am hopeful about my next role as well,” he added.

The action film, which also stars Shruti Haasan and Jaideep Ahlawat, has been directed by Telugu director Krish.

Grover, who was approached by co-producer Shabina Khan for the film, said he agreed to do the film as his character is well-sketched and has a major part in the story. “It is an important character in the narrative. I have done guest appearances and small roles before. But in this film my role is a full-fledged character and has a role to play in the story. It is a substantial part,” said the actor, who has earlier done small roles in films such as Zila Ghaziabad, Heropanti and Ghajini.

Gabbar is Back releases in India on May 1.

Grover, who has mostly been part of comedy-based shows, said he feels good with the fact that despite his prolonged participation in light-hearted show, filmmakers are considering him for non-comic roles.

“I am fortunate to be acknowledged by the people. I am happy and content with the way people have showered love on me. I don’t mind comic roles, I am glad that I am able to put smile on people’s faces.

“But in the recent times, if I have been offered ten films, then eight of them were not funny characters. So, I am happy filmmakers are considering me for various roles, not just comedy,” Grover said.

Grover’s Comedy Nights with Kapil colleague Kapil Sharma is all set to make his Bollywood debut soon. When asked if he was open to doing a movie with him, Grover said, “Yes, sure why not? Till now nothing like that has been offered but in future if something good comes up then we will definitely do it.”