Deepika Padukone, renowned Bollywood actor and member of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Radio and Television Artists (SAG-AFTRA), will not be attending the launch of her upcoming film, Project K, at the San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC). This decision comes in light of the ongoing strike by SAG-AFTRA in the United States. According to an industry insider, Deepika will adhere to the guidelines set by SAG-AFTRA, which prohibit actors from participating in promotional or publicity services, including appearances at conventions like SDCC. As a result, she will be giving the eagerly-awaited Project K event a miss.
It is worth noting that Deepika Padukone made her Hollywood debut in 2017 with the film XXX: Return of Xander Cage, alongside Vin Diesel. Earlier this year, at the 95th Academy Awards, she had introduced the Best Original Song Oscar-winner from the blockbuster film RRR, directed by SS Rajamouli.
Deepika’s decision to skip the Project K event aligns with the support shown by fellow Indian actress Priyanka Chopra, who also expressed solidarity with SAG-AFTRA during the ongoing strike. Priyanka shared a post on Instagram featuring a poster that read ‘SAG-AFTRA strong,’ accompanied by a caption emphasizing unity and a better future for the entertainment industry.
The strike by SAG-AFTRA, which represents around 160,000 performers worldwide, including film and television actors, began on July 14. The union has laid out strict rules for its members during the strike, prohibiting their participation in activities such as film tours, promotions, festivals, premieres, and award shows.
As for Project K, on the first day of SDCC, co-stars Prabhas and Kamal Haasan will unveil the film’s official title, trailer, and release date. Vyjayanthi Movies, the film’s production banner, will also host conversations and performances at the Comic-Con, offering audiences a glimpse into the vibrant culture and captivating world of Indian science fiction. Directed by Nag Ashwin, Project K features an ensemble cast including Deepika Padukone, Prabhas, Kamal Haasan, Amitabh Bachchan, Rana Daggubati, and Disha Patani, among others. This marks the first-ever debut of an Indian film at the SDCC.