Akshay Kumar experienced a challenging period at the box office following 2022, with several films failing to meet expectations. However, his career saw a turnaround in 2023 with the successful release of 'OMG 2'. Before this triumph, the Bollywood star appeared in 'Selfiee', which did not perform well commercially. Interestingly, actor-turned-director Prithviraj Sukumaran revealed that Akshay did not charge for his role in 'Selfiee'. Instead, he set a unique condition: he would only accept payment if the movie became a hit. Following the disappointment of 'Selfiee', 'OMG 2' provided Akshay with the much-needed success. The Hindi adaptation of the Malayalam film 'Driving Licence' failed to replicate its predecessor's commercial success.
Akshay Kumar's Unique Payment Condition
Actor-turned-director Prithviraj Sukumaran disclosed an intriguing aspect about Akshay Kumar's remuneration approach for 'Selfiee'. Unlike typical arrangements, Akshay opted not to take any upfront payment. His decision was based on the film's performance, showcasing his confidence and risk-taking ability. This gesture reflects Akshay's commitment to supporting innovative projects and ensuring they have a fair chance to succeed without financial burdens.
In a recent interaction, Prithviraj shared how Akshay's involvement in 'Selfiee' was marked by a distinctive agreement. The Bollywood star insisted on linking his remuneration to the film's success. If 'Selfiee' had been a hit, Akshay would have received his fee accordingly. Unfortunately, the film did not meet commercial expectations, and as per their arrangement, Akshay declined any payment. This act underscores Akshay's willingness to support filmmakers and contribute positively to the industry's creative landscape.
Career Milestones and Upcoming Projects
Akshay Kumar's career resurgence is evident with the success of 'OMG 2', following the underperformance of 'Selfiee'. The contrast between these two releases highlights the unpredictable nature of the film industry and Akshay's adaptability. With several high-profile projects on the horizon, Akshay continues to solidify his position as a leading figure in Bollywood. His upcoming ventures include 'Jolly LLB 3', 'Welcome to the Jungle', 'Housefull 5', 'Hera Pheri 3', and 'Kesari Chapter 2', promising further success.
The journey from 'Selfiee' to 'OMG 2' illustrates Akshay Kumar's resilience and versatility. While 'Selfiee', a remake of the Malayalam hit 'Driving Licence', struggled at the box office, 'OMG 2' reestablished Akshay as a bankable star. This trajectory emphasizes the importance of diverse projects and strategic choices in maintaining a thriving career. Moving forward, Akshay's slate of films promises to captivate audiences and reaffirm his status as a powerhouse in Indian cinema. Simultaneously, Prithviraj Sukumaran is focused on promoting 'L2: Empuraan', featuring Mohanlal, marking another significant milestone in his directorial career.