Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; July 17, 2017)

In 2015, Anil Kapoor had announced that he is adapting the hit American sitcom Modern Family for Indian television. However, there was silence around the project post that, which led to hushed whispers that the adaptation had been shelved.

Now, in conversation with midday, Kapoor refutes the rumours, confirming that India will definitely get its desi Modern Family. Stating that he had put the show on the backburner as he had gotten busy with his film projects, the actor says he is now ready to focus on the show and bring it to Indian screens as soon as possible. “The contracts are all done and I can proudly say that everything is on paper now. We will lock everything by the year-end and hopefully, start rolling by early next year,” he said.

The American sitcom revolves around three families in California as they deal with daily-life events in their quirky way, resulting in hilarious situations. Starring Ed O’Neill and Sofia Vergara, the laugh riot has won numerous awards over the years.

Kapoor is no stranger to American sitcoms. The actor, 60, brought the popular thriller 24 to India in 2013, where he played Anti-Terrorist Unit officer Jai Singh Rathore, aka the Indian version of Jack Bauer. Having received a positive response to the first two seasons, Kapoor now plans to start work on the third edition of 24. “Both the seasons received a fantastic response and we are kicked to start work on the third season. The plan is on, but at this time, all I can say is we are definitely coming out with a new season.”

The actor filmed the pilot of the digital adaptation of author Michel Faber’s 2014 bestseller
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 23, 2016)


In August, when Anil Kapoor’s international agent David Unger first brought him the offer to feature in the pilot episode of an Amazon Global Original based on Michel Faber’s 2014 sci-fi bestseller, The Book of Strange New Things, the 59-year-old actor had two reasons to turn it down — his son Harshvardhan was gearing up for his big Bollywood debut with Mirzya and he was filming the second season of his Indian TV show, 24, till September 19.

But keen to have him on board, the English makers chose to wait for him, and on October 7, Anil took off to South Africa to step into the role of the authoritarian Vikram Danesh for the pilot of the series.

The digital adaptation follows the story of an English priest who is sent into space to help establish a new colony but what he discovers there not only puts his faith to test but also life as he knows it. The priest comes across the planet of Oasis and meets Anil’s character who is its leader.

Penned by Bridge of Spies writer Matt Charman, who is also the executive producer, the pilot is directed by Kevin MacDonald whose 2006 film, The Last King of Scotland, received global critical acclaim and won its lead actor, Forest Whitaker, the Oscar for Best Actor. His 2009 political-thriller, State of Play, featured Russell Crowe and Ben Affleck in a face-off. “I felt fortunate for this opportunity because of the genius that Kevin is! I saw the most magnificent content unfold in front of my eyes as I watched him direct,” Kapoor reminisces, adding that it would have been “devastating” if he’d missed out on this role. The part also marks his international debut on the digital platform, a first for a Bollywood A-lister. Next up, Kapoor has his fingers crossed as the makers wait to hear if the show is picked up for a complete season by Amazon Studios.

The actor-producer whose repertoire of international hits including Oscar favourite, Slumdog Millionnaire, where he put then debutant Dev Patel on the hot-seat, lending his voice for Family Guy, featuring as the President of the fictional country of Kamlistan in the hit American series 24, and a special appearance in the Tom Cruise-starrer Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, says that he’s not scared of failure at all. “If I shoot for a project and it doesn’t work, I’m okay with that. People will make fun of me but that keeps me on my toes. I am always ready to fail,” he smiles, pointing out that he is in sync with the changing times and is enjoying adapting to technological advancements in cinema.

“At the moment, content is consumed more than food. From a five-year-old to an old man in a hospital, everyone is constantly consuming content on their phones,” he asserts, throwing more light on his process of getting into his newest character.

“When I prep for a role, I don’t look at only what I am doing as an actor. Instead, I prefer to educate myself. Vikram Danesh is such a magnificent part. Even the costume designer was an Oscar-winner,” Anil beams.

Like he brought the real-time show 24 to India with an official Hindi remake, does he plan to so something on similar lines with his new show? “Amazon’s plans for India are incredible. They’re launching soon. It will blow everybody’s mind away. People just need to wait and watch,” he signs off with a wink.
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Upala KBR (DNA; November 23, 2016)

Anil Kapoor makes his digital debut with Amazon Originals’ new sci-fi drama pilot, The Book Of Strange New Things, based on the book by Michael Faber. The one-hour pilot is set to be written and executive produced by Matt Charman (Bridge Of Spies) with Kevin MacDonald (The Last King Of Scotland) directing. Here, the actor talks about his digital debut...

What made you say yes?
I like to keep re-inventing myself. I like to put myself in a situation where there is a possibility that I can fail. Acting in English is so scary. You can’t keep on working with people you know. You may fail in an unfamiliar format and I know I am petrified today about working in The Book of Strange New Things. But when I am petrified, it pushes me to challenge myself further. I like to push my boundaries!

Please continue...
So, when I get an opportunity to push myself I grab it. Like I did with my first Hollywood film Slumdog Millionaire where I played an anchor and had to suddenly speak in English. I did 24 and could have failed there on the small screen, but I just worked harder. When I did Mission Impossible, I was scared again. Though it was a huge success, it was a small cameo. It wasn’t a lead role and I had to do my best to stand out. I admire all the famous character actors like Paresh Rawal, Naseerudin Shah, Pankaj Kapur and Ben Kingsley. Doing different things is the only way I can sharpen my skills and not stagnate as an actor.

You haven’t attempted science fiction before...
This was a scary factor for me. Now, thanks to this, I am seeing all those sci-fi films and understanding what it is about. I have seen Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey and Star Wars, but that’s about it. I am a boy from Chembur, what do I know about such people? I just knew that Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon. But now, slowly when I watch sci-fi cinema, I enjoy it more. By the way, Sonam has read the book and loved it.

Are you playing a grey character in the web series?
I will say that Danesh is a very complex character, so that makes it more interesting and exciting. I feel challenged and excited as an actor. It’s a completely alien zone for me and that’s also the biggest advantage. I was speaking to Shekhar Kapur about it and that I am getting to work with some of the world’s best creative teams. The director and producer are Oscar winners and the writer is an Oscar nominee. These are people who are respected all over the world. I feel very strongly that streaming is the future of the world, so why not stick out my neck now and see what happens? I am getting this opportunity to work with some phenomenal talent, so ghus jao!

Would you do a bold streaming series?
My role is the most important thing to me as well the people around it who are at the helm of affairs. Those are my priorities — the producer, director, studio and my role, then I go into the content. It can be anything from the simplest one to the boldest. It has to excite me, and if it does, I will do it. To see how bold my role is, is not my criteria as an actor. I just go with my instincts. I loved the story of the show and I said yes.

What is next for your television production after 24?
I’m fully into the production phase now with the Indian versions of Modern Family, Prison Break and the third season of 24.

Your 24 won six trophies at the Indian TV awards. Were you expecting it to do so well?
No. I didn’t expect it this time. I thought they wouldn’t give it to me as I didn’t attend. Sometimes, you can guess whether they are genuine or not and you can tell them from before so getting so many was a pleasant surprise. I couldn’t attend the event as I was at the International Children’s Film Festival in Jaipur.

Anil Kapoor on completing 100 days of 24 and the plan ahead
Upala KBR (DNA; October 1, 2016)


Anil who has been shooting round-the-clock, tells us, “It was exciting, thrilling, fulfilling, intense and exhausting. When we completed the last shot, I was choked with emotions as I bid farewell to everyone. When I got home my wife Sunita told me, ‘I have got my husband back.’ Everyone in my family was so excited about me coming home now. My manager Jalal went home to sleep after 100 days. We have shot for over 150 days including a prep period of 50 days.”

One of his favourite memories of Season 2 is a compliment from a contemporary, “I was very moved when Shabana (Azmi) said that I have raised the bar enormously for Indian TV with 24. When we ended the show everyone on my team came and hugged me. It has been an amazingly emotional, sentimental, physically draining journey for me. Yet I have learned from the whole experience. We have been shooting round-the-clock for the last one-and-a half-months since July and I am very happy, relieved and proud of what we have achieved.”

Now that the second season 24 is over another chapter will begin for Anil next week, “Our last episode will air on October 9 and my son Harshavardhan’s film Mirzya is releasing on October 7. So I begin another journey now as a father. People ask me if I feel sad now that 24 has ended. There are two things that are not in my dictionary and have been banned from the Kapoor home ­­—­ sadness, depression and boredom. When people feel sad, we give them a kick, when bored a slap and when depressed joota maarte hai hum. We don’t go to psychiatrists this way. In Indian families we are all there to give each other happiness and moral support.”

So after this can we expect 24: Season 3? “Right now, I am not thinking of a third series. Now, I will get into films as I have signed Mubarkan and Fanney Khan. On TV, I will dive into the Indian adaptation of Modern Family. My team is in place.” But he won’t act in it because of his movie commitments. He adds jokingly, “Of course if any actor acts smarts in my production, I will replace him with myself. I can be the father, the husband or even play the gay character. So all actors in Modern Family beware!”

Anil Kapoor talks about his cameo in the finale of American animation show Family Guy; discusses his ideas behind bringing international shows to India
Letty Mariam Abraham (MID-DAY; May 27, 2016)

Anil Kapoor has a lot going on. He recently revealed his Family Guy avatar, which apparently goes on air this Sunday. He has also bought the Hindi remake rights to US drama Prison Break and is hunting for the perfect cast for Modern Family’s desi version besides shooting for 24. Despite juggling multiple projects, the actor just doesn’t want to stop. hitlist caught up with him for a brief chat...

How was it dubbing for an international animated series (Family Guy)?
The dubbing theatre was nothing like I had imagined. I gave a lot of takes and they (the makers) took whatever they liked best.

Did you give any inputs for your look?
I don’t take myself too seriously. I just went there and had a lot of fun — especially since it’s an adult animated series. Usually, animated series are for kids, but Family Guy is popular worldwide, and appeals to all age groups. In the finale of every season, they ask a celebrity to lend their voice for a cameo. Celebs like Johnny Depp, Barack Obama, Brad Pitt have lent their voice in previous seasons and this year, they asked me to be part of it.

Will we hear you mouth your trademark dialogue?
I wanted to, but while recording I got so carried away with the character that it completely slipped my mind. I forgot to say Jhakaas!

What is the status of 24 season 2 and Modern Family’s Hindi version?
24 is 70 per cent shot. The pre- production of Modern Family is underway. I will start Prison Break after wrapping up 24. Prison Break is very Indian with sibling love, drama, jail, freedom, action and emotions.

Have you locked the cast for desi Modern Family?
I have my wish list for both Modern Family and Prison Break, but a lot depends on their availability. There are people I want but they are not as committed and some want to do it but they don’t have much time. You need to be passionate about television; it’s a different ballgame all together. Usually people do TV just as time pass or to make money, but for me, it’s of utmost priority.

Modern Family showcases a married gay couple. Do you think the audience here is ready for that?
I have never done things based on whether the audience is ready or not. I just go with my gut. You win some and you lose some. Be it the biggest filmmaker or an artist, no one has a 100 per cent track record. Why should I have that fear?

As per TRPs, 24 worked well with the urban audience, but didn’t hit bull’s eye in rural areas…
That’s true. But people, who didn’t watch the first season while it was being aired, caught up with it online and repeat episodes and that’s how the popularity of the show increased. So, maybe with the second season, more people will watch it and the show will get better ratings. Fingers crossed. And if it doesn’t, we will keep coming up with season after season until they (channel) completely stop making them.

Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 3, 2015)

Sonam Kapoor looks elegant in a black anarkali as she checks out pictures on her cell phone from a Halloween party she attended recently. She had dressed as Wednesday from Charles Addams' comic strip The Addams Family.

Buzz is, she turned down a role in dad Anil Kapoor's Indian adaptation of the popular American sitcom, Modern Family. "No one has made me an offer yet so I couldn't have rejected it. If there is a suitable role for me, I'm game," she smiles.

For now, the actress has her hands full with three soon-to-roll productions. "I may act in one, even two of them," she says, but refutes the rumour that one of them is a chick flick with Katrina Kaif. "We are currently working on a film adaptation of the bestselling novel, Battle for Bittora, which will kickstart once the script is in place. Before that, Khoobsurat director Shashanka Ghosh will direct another film for us for which casting is on."

Hasn't Farhan Akhtar replaced Fawad Khan in Battle for Bittora? "He might still be doing it," asserts Sonam, adding that she hopes the Pakistani actor will be working with them a lot more. "But till the script is locked, I can't comment on the casting. All I know is that I am doing the film. Period." On November 9, Sonam completes eight years in Bollywood. Three days later, Sooraj Barjatya's family drama, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, opens in the theatres. "I've been a huge fan of Soorajji's films, they are so entertaining and his leading ladies have so much to do. My character, Maithili, knows exactly what she wants which is really cool. Plus, I get to play a princess," she beams. But isn't this sweeter-than-sugar rajkumari very different from the bold, outspoken Sonam? "That's good, na?" she quips. "It means that I can act. None of my characters have been close to the real me, whether it's the Delhi-6 girl, the South Delhi Aisha or even the Khoobsurat doctor. Maithili is a girl from modern times rooted in our Indian culture. In one of the key scenes in the film, she refuses to be pressurised into a marriage saying, 'I'd rather be happy and alone than be unhappy with somebody.' I too come from a traditional Indian family but at the end of the day, my parents also let me know that I'm a strong individual."

So who is her favourite Barjatya heroine, Bhagyashree from Maine Pyar Kiya or Madhuri Dixit from Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!? "Madhuri's Nisha, Bhaygyashree's Suman was too straightforward and none of my characters have followed that path, whether it's Sakina in Saawariya or Bittu in Delhi-6. They may not be lovable girls but for me they were exciting to play," she reasons.

Sonam got a chance to be serenaded by the original Prem, Salman Khan in the upcoming Diwali dhamaka. She admits that she was initially quite intimidated by her co-star. "Salman is such a superstar and incredibly charismatic. But Soorajji and he went out of their way to make me comfortable," she says, adding that the only blip was her coming down with swine flu while filming in Gujarat. "It was scary, I missed four-five days of work which I made up for later."

Sonam recently wrapped up the Neerja Bhanot biopic in which she plays the flight attendant who was killed while saving passengers from terrorists. "It was daunting to play someone so heroic because you don't want to let their memories down," she says. "I gave the film my 150 per cent, even overprepped for it. There was a lot of research involved. It is the scariest film I have done."

Anil Kapoor says that he has no qualms approaching a filmmaker for powerful parts
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; October 26, 2015)


You’ve been saying that you want to make the second season of 24 bigger and better...
Yes, it’s not just a question of bigger and better. What we are trying to do is take feedback about the first season from people and the critics to incorporate it in the second one.

But it will remain a niche show, right?
Yes. Basically, it’s like what happened in films. I remember when Mr India happened, it was considered niche, especially since it released along with Nagina. People said Nagina would be more successful than Mr India. For that matter, even Parinda and Dil Chahta Hai were considered niche. But aaj hamari pehchan un filmon se hai. Earlier directors, who had a different vision and spoke English were forced to change their thinking and make the same kind of films that were being churned out and now, it’s the other way round. If directors are not willing to broaden their horizons (Hindi aati hai, English nahi) then, it won’t do. That will happen on TV, too. 24 is the just the beginning, but it is also a game-changer. I am not saying it is original (it’s obviously an adaptation and the credit goes to the creators), but the way we are making it, the production scale — that should be of international standard. In fact, I met the makers of the original show recently and they said they loved the way we had made it. The sad thing here is that most people, especially from the film fraternity look at TV to earn money than doing some good work. For me, it’s the other way round. I do films for money and TV to do something I am passionate about. We are trying to raise the bar. Yes, it is a multiplex show, but today a multiplex has more respect than a single theatre!

Is it true that Akshaye Khanna and Tabu will be part of the show?
I don’t want to talk about the cast right now because everything should be confirmed and contracts have to be signed. We have several choices for every role. Every actor has to understand the intent of the show. He/she should have passion and commitment for the show and not do it as a favour. Outsiders with a different intent and thinking will not be considered.

You have several actors in your family. Haven’t you considered casting your brother Sanjay for any role?
I did, but no role suits him. It is not about casting your brother, uncle or aunt, the role should be good. Jabardasti, you can’t cast anyone. Sometimes the role may be good, but he/she should suit the character.

You are also adapting Modern Family. Will you be playing the main role?
Right now, we are working on the script. When you adapt you have to crack the right way to do it keeping the purity and soul of the show intact. Getting the right people to play the characters is pivotal. Sonam has already rejected it, but I am ready to play any role. I am a beggar for good roles. I have no qualms approaching a filmmaker for a role, if it is powerful.

You played a father for the first time to Gen Next actors in Dil Dhadakne Do...
(Cuts in) They (Priyanka Chopra and Ranveer Singh) played my children. Instead of asking me the clichéd question of playing a father, I would rather you ask me what kind of research I did to play the character of Kamal Mehra. I have played a father and grandfather in Eeshwar. In 24, I play a father to a grown-up child. If the role is good, I will even play the grandfather. All international stars like Brad Pitt are doing such roles. I am not deluded — I have to play my age, so why not?

So, any film with Sonam in the pipeline?
Sonam ke saath, it depends. Some people are already scripting something, there’s a possibility. The only thing is we both have to be excited about the roles. If mine is good and not hers, she won’t do it and vice versa.

Is the hero of Battle For Bittora finalised?
Not yet.

There were reports of Fawad Khan being finalised and later he opting out.
They were all rumours. I don’t like these speculations because the project gets spoiled. We are still working on the film. Everything has to fall into the right place. Some people take the opportunity to announce it either for money or just for the heck of it and some people try to build their brand by talking about being approached and turning it down.

You have grown a beard for your character in the show. Will you be doing films simultaneously or after the show is over?
I am completely focussed on my show, so films will happen only after this. Also, though I have sported a beard in some of my films, this is the first time I have grown a real beard. It represents what the character is going through in his life. I haven’s signed any film as yet, but I am in talks for a couple of them.

Anil Kapoor on who he’d like to be cast as in the Indian adaptation of popular sitcom Modern Family
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; July 3, 2015)


He humbly says, “I am happy that I am getting to contribute to our industry and theirs in my own little way.” The actor has just finished dubbing for Family Guy and is all set to bring the ABC comedy Modern Family to Indian television.

“I feel India today is ready for something like Modern Family and it’s coming here for sure. But Rhea is handling that. She is making all the decisions.”

Will he be acting in it? He says with an impish smile, “I hope they cast me.” As who, we asked. “I can play both roles — the older guy or the younger husband. Both are fantastic roles. I can play the gay guy as well,” he laughs.

The actor-producer on playing the patriarch in his next and adapting American shows
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; May 25, 2015)

As the ageless Anil Kapoor turned a year older yesterday on December 24, he shares some beauty tips with his fans and admirers and also his future plans. Read on...
Subhash K Jha (DNA; December 25, 2014)

I don’t think I’ve done anything special to look the way I do. It’s just self-discipline. When I was younger, my co-stars would make fun of me for not having enough fun after shooting. But I don’t think it’s important to party till the wee hours to be happy in life. I was very happy shooting and spending time with my family, I still am. I guess that inner peace shows on my face. I never compromise on my work.

So you never let your hair down?
Of course, I set aside days when I just throw all caution to the wind, take a holiday, eat forbidden food — with my wife’s permission — just chill. But there have been times when during a party at home, I am suddenly found missing because I’ve an early-morning shoot.

You sound like a health freak?
I am not fanatical about my health. Somewhere, I also feel I am blessed because I come from healthy stock. My dad and my grandfather were not actors and yet, they looked after themselves and lived a full life.

But Boney and his son Arjun were overweight and so was Sonam...
That was because they didn’t look after themselves earlier. I always believe that one has to look one’s best if one is an actor because audiences pay money to watch one’s movies. But I was never into muscle-building. Only fitness. If you’re fit, you feel good about yourself. Also, it’s important to maintain a positivity in your mindset. Never get into a negative line of thinking. And you must always have something to look forward to, every morning. In my 35-year career, I’ve always had something to look forward to. Motivation is life, frustration is death.

Why so coy about your birthday?
Not coy. But I still cringe when I think of all those birthday parties on the sets where everyone would stand around singing. It was so embarrassing (laughs).

You were recently seen having a great time on Kapil Sharma’s show, Comedy Nights With Kapil...
The reaction was terrific. I’d gone just to have fun. We also released the DVD of the 24 series and announced plans to adapt another American serial. I had no plans of announcing Modern Family on Kapil’s show. It was not a 100 per cent pucca then. But because of my long relationship with LA and 20th Century Fox, I could informally announce that I was doing Modern Family. The official announcement will happen soon.

Will you be acting in Modern Family?
To be honest with you, I haven’t given this a serious thought. Right now, my entire focus is on the second season of 24. I don’t know if I will be in it. But I’ll always be there for anyone who needs me on the sets.

You were absent from films in 2014?
That’s because I was shooting for my serial 24 in 2013. The films were on hold. 2014 is the year when I got down to shooting two films, Anees Bazmee’s Welcome Back and Zoya Akhtar’s Dil Dhadkne Do. So the fruits of my labour in 2014 will be apparent in 2015. You will see me in these two films. And in the second season of 24.

How’s season 2 coming along?
Around seven episodes have already been written.

Actor, producer, singer....When are you turning director?
To be honest, the thought does cross my mind. Maybe soon.

Your thoughts on the year?
2014 was hectic. 2015 will be one of the most exciting years of my life. I’ve great plans for 2016 and 2017. Yes, I’ve already planned many things for the next three years.

Roshmilla Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 13, 2014)

After 24, Anil Kapoor is getting ready to adapt Modern Family for Indian television. Confirming this, the actor-producer told Mirror from Dubai, "Yes, I'm close to finalising the deal. Once all the stakeholders come together, we will take a call on the talent and the channel. Making a show is as time-consuming as making a film, but I'd like it to go on air as soon as possible."

The Emmy-winning American sitcom which is currently in its sixth season in the US, revolves around three different but related families. Jay Pritchett is the family's patriarch, with a much younger second wife (a role that made Sofia Vergara a star) and step son. The series starts with his gay son and partner starting a family of their own by adopting a daughter from China.

Isn't this too modern a family for our desi audience? "I think India is ready for a Modern Family. The middle-class is growing rapidly and we have a new government that makes the future look bright," reasons Anil.

Prod him on the role he sees himself in and he sighs, "I'd love to be a part of the family. I love the show, all the characters are an actor's delight. It's one of the longest-running sitcoms but I don't know if I'll be able to make time for it. I've just wrapped up two films, Anees Bazmee's Welcome Back and Zoya Akhtar's Dil Dhadakne Do. I'm committed to the second season of 24 which will take around eight months of work. But if the company needs me, I'm always there. I wish I could do both shows."

He points out that he's had to delay the second season of 24, which will soon return to the small screen with its second season, because of his hectic schedule. "But from the third season, we will be right on track," he promises. So the Indian 24 will keep coming back every year? "For sure!" he asserts.