In 2022, it was announced that Zeenat Aman would make her OTT debut with the web series Showstopper, directed by Manish Harishankar and produced by MH Films. However, no updates have been provided about the show's release in the past couple of months. On May 29, The Free Press Journal reported that Manish Harishankar is facing significant monetary issues. The show has yet to be picked up by any OTT platform and remains incomplete.

Accusations against Showstopper makers

The Free Press Journal revealed that Manish has not paid daily wage workers, including hair and makeup artists, stylists, and others for over a year. Actors and crew members have responded to Manish’s claims, stating that their payments remain unpaid despite repeated requests. These individuals, essential to the filmmaking process, are struggling financially due to these outstanding dues.

Rakesh Bedi, a notable actor in the series, mentioned, “It’s been one-and-a half or two years. I have not received my payment yet. I think the problem is that they have to finish a lot of work, clear all the dues of others then only they can release the series. Even I have a few other friends in the series, who have not received their payments.”

Celebrity fashion designer Krishna, who has styled Esha Deol, Daisy Shah, and others, added, “I read an article about Showstopper, and the director claimed payments were cleared. I recently met a stylist who worked on the same project. Both of us have not received our payments. I only received Rs 25,000 out of the committed Rs 1,25,000. Additionally, our luggage charges remain unpaid.”

More people hurl accusations against Showstopper makers

As per The Free Press Journal, the series, shot in Indore, has left many, from casting directors to junior artists, unpaid. Casting director Adesh Malviya stated, "I have provided many artists in Indore, and Manish did not pay me for that."

Actor Ashmit Joshi, who also worked on the show, said, "I reside in Indore. I have worked as an actor for the series Showstopper, and Manish sir has not paid me yet."

These cast and crew members have attempted to contact the director for their payments, but there has been no response. Manish has even deleted comments from his Instagram page where junior actors asked for their money.