Actor Prashant Narayanan, widely remembered for playing the chilling antagonist in Murder 2, has stirred controversy with strong remarks about Bollywood’s leading stars.
In a recent interview with Bollywood Bubble, the actor — who has worked across Hindi, Bengali and Malayalam cinema for over three decades — claimed that many so-called “A-list” actors lack genuine talent.
Calling certain on-set behaviours “extremely unprofessional,” Prashant criticised actors who pull pranks or frequently question creative decisions.
“Pulling pranks on a producer’s set is not the right attitude,” he said, adding that some actors focus more on physique and optics than performance.
He further suggested that producers tolerate such behaviour because bankable stars ensure box-office returns.
Kartik Aaryan Called ‘Terrible’ by Prashant
When specifically asked about Kartik Aaryan, Prashant did not mince words.
“I think he is one of the most terrible actors we have here. But he is extremely lucky and surviving because of his parents’ blessings,” he said.
He described Kartik as “non-communicative” and claimed he is “boosted by the people around him.” However, he acknowledged liking the actor in his debut film, Pyaar Ka Punchnama.
Kartik Aaryan has delivered several commercial successes, including Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Satyaprem Ki Katha, which performed well at the box office post-pandemic.
Responding to claims that Kartik helped revive theatres, Prashant said he has seen audiences laughing “at” actors rather than “with” them, stressing that entertainers must respect viewers’ time and money.
He also referenced recent projects like Chandu Champion, suggesting not all films have worked in the actor’s favour.
Not the First Time Prashant Has Criticised Peers
This is not the first time Prashant Narayanan has publicly criticised a fellow actor. He had earlier taken aim at Ranveer Singh over his portrayal of Alauddin Khilji in Padmaavat.
Questioning Ranveer’s claims of immersing himself in dark mental spaces to prepare for the role, Prashant had dismissed the method as exaggerated — remarks that drew backlash at the time.
Debate Rekindles Industry Conversations
Prashant’s latest comments have reignited discussions about stardom, talent versus marketability, and the economics of Bollywood. While some see his remarks as candid industry critique, others view them as unnecessarily harsh.
Neither Kartik Aaryan nor Ranveer Singh has publicly responded to the recent statements so far.
