With Cocktail 2 generating buzz thanks to its star-studded cast of Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna and Kriti Sanon, fans are once again revisiting the original 2012 hit Cocktail, which featured Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty. The film remains one of Bollywood’s most loved romantic dramas, known for its fresh take on modern relationships and memorable performances.
However, many fans may be surprised to learn that Saif Ali Khan was not the first choice to play the character of Gautam.
In a recent interview, Saif Ali Khan revealed that while Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty had already been finalised for the film, the makers were struggling to find an actor for the male lead. According to Saif, the female characters, especially Deepika’s role, were so strong and appealing that several actors were hesitant about taking on the project.
The actor recalled that a few Bollywood stars were approached before him, including Imran Khan and Ranbir Kapoor. After several discussions with other actors, Saif eventually agreed to take on the role. Looking back, he jokingly suggested that the film worked out well because he decided to be part of it. He also shared that he thoroughly enjoyed working with director Homi Adajania and had a great experience during the shoot.
Interestingly, reports from that time suggested that Ranbir Kapoor not only declined the film himself but also advised Deepika Padukone against doing it. However, Deepika trusted her instincts and went ahead with the project. The decision proved to be a career-defining one, as her portrayal of Veronica became one of the most iconic performances of her career.
The character became so popular that many fans started referring to her as “Veronica” instead of Deepika after the film’s release. Ranbir later admitted that his judgment about the project had been wrong.
Now, more than a decade later, the franchise is entering a new chapter with Shahid Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna and Kriti Sanon leading Cocktail 2, hoping to recreate the magic that made the original film a Bollywood favourite.
Are you going to watch Cocktail 2 in theatres?
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