Shivarajkumar opens up on Thalapathy 69, Vijay's political ambitions: 'He's a fantastic human'
Shivarajkumar confirmed that he has been offered a pivotal role in Thalapathy Vijay's much-anticipated project, Thalapathy 69, which is rumoured to be Vijay's swan song before he turns full-time to politics.
Shivarajkumar and Thalapathy Vijay
Kannada superstar Shivarajkumar hails from the most prominent film family in India. Dr. Rajkumar's family has produced several generations of actors for the Kannada film industry, but Shivarajkumar is the first to explore opportunities in other languages, paving the way for younger actors. In a recent interview, he confirmed that he had been offered a role in Thalapathy Vijay's upcoming film, temporarily titled Thalapathy 69. The movie is believed to be Vijay's final project before he quits acting to focus full-time on politics.
While Shivarajkumar is eager to share screen space with Vijay in Thalapathy 69, he expressed uncertainty due to scheduling conflicts. "I have been asked to be part of Vijay's next movie. It's a beautiful character, and that sounds interesting, but I don't know how it will shake out because of my dates. They’re saying it’s Vijay’s last movie," he said.
He also shared his feelings as Vijay's friend and well-wisher, expressing a sense of sadness over it being his last film, but also offering praise for his political ambitions. "Vijay is a fantastic actor and human being. His political ambitions are very admirable. I respect him for that. I hope I can finish this film as well," he added.
Shivarajkumar made a huge impact in Tamil Nadu after playing a cameo in Superstar Rajinikanth's blockbuster Jailer last year. Though his screen time was less than 10 minutes, his presence received tremendous love from audiences in Tamil Nadu and the Telugu states, significantly boosting his popularity across South India. He was also later seen in Dhanush's Captain Miller.
Shivarajkumar has also been roped in for a key role in Telugu superstar Ram Charan's upcoming movie. However, he is currently battling a serious health condition and undergoing treatment. He revealed that he plans to go to the U.S. for surgery by the end of December and will remain there for a few weeks to complete his treatment. Despite this, Shivarajkumar is hoping to wrap up all his film commitments before then.
Currently, Shivarajkumar is busy promoting his upcoming movie Bhairathi Ranagal, which is set to hit cinemas on November 15.