Deepika Padukone steps back from acting in ‘The Intern’ remake; will focus as producer on the project: Report

The Hindi remake of the Hollywood hit ‘The Intern’ was first announced in 2021, with Deepika Padukone set to both act and produce. The plan was for a quick turnaround and a release the following year. But almost five years later, with little progress and only a few updates, reports now say DP will not appear in front of the camera.

Instead, she will focus only on producing the film, leading what’s being called a “creative and logistical reboot” of the project.

Search begins for new female lead

A report by Mid-Day revealed, “This time, Deepika will step away from acting in the film to serve solely as a producer, overseeing the creative and logistical reboot. A new leading lady is being cast to play the part she was once slated to perform.” Casting for the new heroine is now underway, with the fresh production set to be guided entirely by Padukone’s vision as producer.

Shift towards telling global stories

According to the same report, Padukone’s move reflects a bigger career change. “The Intern is the first of five projects she plans to mount in the coming year. She is looking to tell stories that are globally relevant,” the report added.

Popular tale with worldwide appeal

The original 2015 film ‘The Intern’, directed by Nancy Meyers, starred Robert De Niro as a senior intern at a fashion start-up, with Anne Hathaway as the company founder. The warm and uplifting story has already been adapted in Japan as the 2022 TV drama ‘Unicorn Ni Notte’, featuring Hidetoshi Nishijima and Mei Nagano in the lead roles.

Deepika has a busy acting schedule

Even though she will not act in ‘The Intern’ remake, Deepika’s acting career is quite busy. She is set to reunite with director Atlee after their blockbuster hit ‘Jawan’, and is also reportedly playing a key role in Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film ‘King’.