Not just Animal, Parineeti Chopra was also the 1st choice for Kabir Singh - here's what went wrong

In a shocking revelation, director Sandeep Reddy Vanga recently disclosed that Parineeti Chopra was the first choice for his film Animal, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna. Speaking with Komal Nahta, Vanga admitted fault, expressing that he signed Parineeti a year and a half before shooting but couldn't envision her in the role.

Not just Animal but Parineeti was also the first choice for Kabir Singh

Vanga says he trusts his instincts over auditions and acknowledges his long-standing desire to work with Parineeti, even considering her for the 2019 blockbuster Kabir Singh. However, he ultimately opted for another artist, leading Parineeti to feel disappointed yet understanding the director's decision.

Sandeep shared, "Actually, galti mera hi hai. I said, ‘Ho sake toh maaf karo mujhe (It's my fault. I told her to forgive me).’ From day one I have liked her acting and I always wanted to cast her as Preeti also in Kabir Singh but hua nahi uss time (it did not work out). That’s long due. I always wanted to work with her. I told her and she also knows that. I told her, ‘Sorry, nothing is bigger than the film. So I’m taking this decision and going ahead with another artist.’”

More about Animal

In Vanga’s latest blockbuster Animal, Ranbir Kapoor takes on the role of Ranvijay, with Rashmika Mandanna portraying his wife, Geetanjali. Anil Kapoor plays Ranbir's father, and Triptii Dimri is cast as his extramarital affair. Bobby Deol plays the fierce antagonist seeking revenge alongside Saurabh Sachdeva as his closest aid.

Despite facing criticism for its alleged glorification of violence and misogyny, Animal emerged as one of 2023's most commercially successful films. Released on December 1, the movie surpassed ₹500 crore at the Indian box office. A sequel titled Animal Park featuring Ranbir Kapoor in a double role has already been announced.