Diana Penty praises Deepika Padukone; Says 'Cocktail' actress is “Best co-actor to have”

When Diana Penty reflects on her debut film 'Cocktail' (2012), one name stands out - co-star Deepika Padukone. The actress, who had no prior acting experience before entering Bollywood, acknowledges that having Deepika on her first movie set was a big help.

During the “Breaking Stereotypes” session of the NDTV Yuva Conclave, Diana talked candidly about her experience and how Deepika influenced her as a newcomer.

“Deepika was my pillar of support"

Diana recalled that Deepika was the best co-star she could have had for her film 'Cocktail'. Also giving a shout-out to her leading man Saif Ali Khan, she said, "Deepika and Saif were both my pillars of support through the times when I knew nothing," she said.
Diana explained that it felt strange and unfamiliar because it was her first time on a movie set, where she was delivering her first dialogue and scenes. She went on to say that even if she forgot her lines and the scene had to be redone, they both made sure she was at ease and lightened the mood. She added that they never made her feel uncomfortable.

Diana stated that after their work experience, her admiration for Deepika only rose. “I had so many scenes with her, and I’ve always seen her—she’s very, very hardworking and extremely dedicated. And I mean, I think she has a great working style,' she stated.

'Deepika is 10 on 10'

Diana was quick to respond when asked how professional she thinks Deepika is. She remarked, “Extremely professional. 10. Yeah, 10. She is very, very disciplined. And I think that also comes from her upbringing and her background, being a sports player as well. She is disciplined."

Diana added that Deepika was not only a superstar but also the perfect coworker because of her focus and discipline, which were evident in every element of her work.

Diana’s Bollywood journey

Diana Penty shared that challenges have always motivated her, right from her first film, 'Cocktail.' She said her way of working has always been to try something different each time. Calling herself a true scorpion, she added that if someone gives her a challenge, she makes it her mission to give her best and prove people wrong who doubt her.

On the work front

Regarding her career, Diana Penty most recently starred opposite Tamannaah Bhatia and Nakuul Mehta in the series 'Do You Wanna Partner.' The series follows two best friends navigating gender bias in the NCR craft beer market, which was her long-form digital debut. She has also appeared in 'Shiddat,' 'Detective Sherdil,' 'Chhaava,' 'Azaad,' and 'Selfiee.'