Ishaan Khatter recently revealed that he had disagreements with the makers of the Netflix series, "The Royals," regarding the numerous shirtless scenes his character was required to perform. The actor, who plays the Maharaja of Morpur in the romantic dramedy, admitted that while he understood the character was conceived as someone who doesn't typically wear a shirt, he often questioned the necessity of these scenes.
In an interview with Mashable India, Khatter explained that he frequently challenged the creative decisions, feeling that some scenes didn't require him to be shirtless. He recalled specific instances where he argued with the team, suggesting that his character could wear a shirt in certain situations. Despite his reservations, the production team often found what he considered "creative" ways to keep him shirtless, even suggesting he wear a blanket while sleeping to maintain the visual.
Khatter acknowledged the commitment he made to the role and ultimately followed through with the scenes, but he also expressed a hint of frustration. He stated that he did have fun during the process, but his comments suggest underlying discomfort with the extent of the nudity required.
The actor's candor highlights a broader discussion within the entertainment industry about the objectification of actors and the potential for gratuitous nudity. While Khatter's physique garnered attention online, he questioned whether the shirtless scenes always served a narrative purpose or were simply for visual appeal.
"The Royals" has received mixed reviews from critics and viewers alike. While some praised Khatter's performance, others criticized the show for weak writing and a lack of chemistry between characters, particularly between Khatter and Bhumi Pednekar's character. Despite the criticism, Netflix has greenlit a second season, indicating the platform's belief in the show's potential. The series also features a star-studded cast, including Nora Fatehi, Sakshi Tanwar, Dino Morea, and Zeenat Aman.
Away from "The Royals," Ishaan Khatter also discussed his physical transformation for an upcoming project titled "Homebound." Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Khatter had to undergo a significant body transformation, this time shedding his well-defined muscles. He revealed that he lost approximately 8-10 kilograms for the role, as the director wanted him to portray a more "normal" and relatable character. "Homebound" premiered at Cannes and received a nine-minute standing ovation.
Khatter's willingness to challenge creative decisions on "The Royals" and his commitment to physical transformations for different roles demonstrate his dedication to his craft and his growing voice within the industry.