Vikrant Massey opens up on acting break confusion; says, “People still ask me, ‘Why did you retire?’”

In December 2024, Vikrant Massey made an unusual move in the competitive world of Bollywood by announcing a break from films. The news understandably surprised his fans and industry peers. Now, six months later, he's back promoting his upcoming film Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, which has led to confusion, with some assuming he had quit acting entirely. “People still ask me, ‘Why did you retire?’” he shared.

The actor finds it amusing that his announcement was widely misunderstood. “Which part of my post did people not understand? Maybe they are not used to seeing actors taking a break, but I want to better myself. I wanted to take that break. I had mentioned in my post that there are two films I’d be working on, one of which was Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. Two months after announcing my break, I started shooting for it.”

Massey shares that he had declined several offers before making the announcement. He said, “After 12th Fail [2023] and The Sabarmati Report [2024], a lot of films were coming my way. I can’t do 10 films a year. So, that post was to convey to filmmakers that I needed some time off. Many were shocked to hear a no from me.”

More than anything, taking a step back was essential for Massey’s mental well-being. After having seven releases over two years—including hits like 12th Fail and Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba (2024)—he knew it was time to slow down. “This wasn’t a sudden decision. I was experiencing burnout. I wanted to be with my family. I could also feel the audience’s love, and I want to be deserving of their time. But if I’m burned out, how can I face the camera and keep doing the same thing over and over?” he reflected.

The actor completed filming Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, which features Shanaya Kapoor, in March. His next project, White—a biopic on spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar—is scheduled to begin in August, giving him ample time to recharge. And what about Don 3? “It’s too early to talk about it,” he says with a smile.

After the disappointing performance of Zero (2018), Shah Rukh Khan took a break from acting, making a triumphant return over four years later with the blockbuster Pathaan (2023).

Similarly, following the failure of Laal Singh Chaddha (2022), Aamir Khan stepped back to reflect on his career choices. That pause led to the well-received Sitaare Zameen Par this year.

The late Sridevi took a long break from films after marrying Boney Kapoor in 1996, making a celebrated comeback in 2012 with English Vinglish.

Also Read : Vikrant Massey mourns family friend lost in Ahmedabad plane crash: “It pains me even more to know that my uncle who lost his son”

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