Bollywood star Deepika Padukone has made a strategic career move by withdrawing from the lead acting role in the highly anticipated Hindi remake of “The Intern,” though she will remain connected to the project as a producer. The decision marks a significant shift in the film’s casting as the production seeks a new leading lady.
According to industry sources, Padukone was originally set to portray the Anne Hathaway character – a startup founder who hires a retired senior citizen as an intern at her fashion company. The remake has faced several challenges since its announcement, including the tragic loss of Rishi Kapoor, who was initially cast in Robert De Niro’s role before his passing in 2020. Amitabh Bachchan subsequently joined the project to fill that position.
The actress’s decision appears to be part of a broader career strategy focusing on content creation and production. Industry insiders reveal that Padukone aims to “explore her career further as a creator,” with “The Intern” serving as the first of five projects she plans to produce over the next year. Her vision centers on developing “globally relevant” stories that can resonate with international audiences.
This transition comes as Padukone navigates her return to the film industry following her maternity break. The actress welcomed her daughter Dua with husband Ranveer Singh in September 2024 and has been selective about her professional commitments since then.
The original 2015 film followed the heartwarming relationship between a 70-year-old widower and a young entrepreneur, exploring themes of mentorship, wisdom, and intergenerational friendship.
Padukone’s upcoming acting projects include the action film “King” alongside Shah Rukh Khan and the sequel to her 2024 sci-fi hit “Kalki 2898 AD.”
