On Instagram, the actress posted a photo of her lying in a hospital bed with the caption: "have been off social media for awhile ` cuz I had to go kick cancer`s a**."

In the photo, Cohn is smiling and giving a thumbs-up. In her post, she thanked the staff of Providence Saint John`s Hospital, located in Santa Monica, and her "phenomenal" oncology surgeon, Dr. Anton Bilchik.

She also thanked close friends, including The Morning Show actress Tara Karsian and The Rookie star Gregory Zarian, along with his husband, John Stewart.

They "have been my advocates and always on the ready to help me when it`s `my turn.` recouping for another couple of weeks and then ready for my next adventure. onwards! F**K Cancer!" she ended the post.

 

 

 

 

 

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According to People, this is the second time Cohn has battled cancer. In 2017, she revealed that she`d had a five-year battle with breast cancer.

"I kept that secret for a long time, I`ve always been an optimist, but the cancer metastasised. It kept spreading and coming back. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and then it would. And then I`d wait for another shoe to drop, and it would. I was frustrated and enraged. I couldn`t control any of this. I couldn`t fix it," said Cohn as quoted by People.

Cohn was one of the stars of Facts of Life for its entire nine-season run from 1979-88. More recently, she co-starred opposite Kristen Wiig in Apple TV+`s Palm Royale.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

“My grandparents left almost everything when they came to Kolkata. This is not a unique story. There are so many people who migrated during the Partition, 1947-48. There is one particular scene where a child is picking up empty bullet cartridges after his entire family has been massacred; [it was] something that a musician on the show told me,” recalls Sen.

Soumik Sen

He also turned to Susan Brownmiller’s Against Our Will: Men, Women and Rape, which documents the atrocities of Operation Searchlight (March 1971). “There are extremely sordid and gory details [during] Operation Searchlight, which is largely underreported and has gone unpunished,” he adds.

When shaping fiction from history, Sen insists on precision. “To map the true stories first, you have to map the correct cultural incidents. And then you create characters into the story. If you notice that February 21 in 1970 is a Saturday. So you have to keep those things in mind and be accurate.” He also acknowledges that truth is often a version of someone’s perspective. “We will never know the complete truth about any incident, it is always [somebody’s version] of truth. So, you set the parameters given the information and perspective, which is what I have tried. I have told the story from the point of view of a man, Jimmy Roy [played by Arifin Shuvoo], who doesn’t know anything.” For authenticity, Sen cast a Bangladeshi actor in the lead. “We did think of [casting] a prominent face, but I also needed somebody who’s Bangla, and speaks English and Hindi equally well, and has a swag.”

Music shapes the series’ texture, with about 25 tracks composed by Sen, Diptarka Bose, and Arka Mukherjee. “The songs are an album in themselves. In a jazz club, when people are talking, there’s always someone singing in the background, which may or may not take the story forward. Most of the time it is an ambient sound. So that’s how jazz is. Of course, there are some songs to put you in that zone and the mood.”

25
Number of songs in ‘Jazz City’

Did you know?

Despite being a major star in Bangladesh, Arifin Shuvoo’s audition process reportedly lasted nearly two years

“I know that the character is going to be judged. And I’m welcoming that judgment,” she says plainly. “I’m not interested in making a character likeable. That’s not my goal.” For Kamra, the job isn’t to soften a character but to understand her without apology. “Infidelity and jealousy are very human. Relationships are messy. They are not black and white. If we start making moral statements through stories, then we’re simplifying something that isn’t simple.”

Vijay Varma in ‘Matka King’. Pic/Youtube

In Matka King, that messiness shapes her character’s arc. A young, privileged South Bombay Parsi woman begins in the cocooned world of society clubs, brunches, and racecourses, only to be drawn into a radically different world of risk and power. Her attraction to Varma’s character begins without full knowledge, but continues even after the truth emerges. “There is a certain judgment that comes with it, of course, but the story shouldn’t judge. The audience can. It’s interesting to see how people [react] to her, whether they think she’s right or wrong.” Energised by that tension, she adds, “It’s hard to encapsulate people in adjectives. And I like characters like this. I want to do more of this.”

Off screen, however, Kamra finds herself increasingly frustrated. Having moved from television to OTT in search of nuanced storytelling, she now feels that space is shrinking. “It bothers me because it limits my choices. The kind of stories that are coming my way right now have an uncanny similarity with television.” While she acknowledges television’s reach, she believes OTT once promised greater risk-taking. “If you want to speak to a larger audience, you do something that is socially acceptable and not take risks at all. We are constantly catering to the status quo, never challenging anything. We are now data and numbers-driven. So the scope of any experimentation is getting smaller,” she explains.

On the set of Matka King, directed by Nagraj Popatrao Manjule, she found the creative environment she had been seeking — one that values preparation but embraces fluidity. “You want to bring your A-game because of the respect he commands. He’s not attached to lines. He’ll change and mould things. You have to be willing to let go of what you’ve prepared. I don’t want to go and just parrot my lines. I want to think. I want to be challenged. I want to be part of something where everyone is working towards the story, not just themselves. I just hope people watch it, feel something, or think about it,” she says. “If it stays with you, that’s the biggest win.”

And if it doesn’t? She shrugs, almost, and says, “Then we’ll try again.”

Did you know?

The show is reportedly loosely based on the life of Ratan Khatri, the original “Matka King” who transformed a simple household pot into a nationwide gambling empire in the 1960s and 70s

24 trailer out 

JioHotstar took to its official Instagram account to share the trailer of the Anil Kapoor-starrer series. The caption read, "24 hours are enough to turn the world upside down… 24, streaming on JioHotstar from 24th April."

 

 

 

 

 

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Packed with intense action, real-time narrative, and high-stakes drama, the trailer revisits the world of Jai Singh Rathod, promising audiences a pulse-pounding experience. Rathod is the head of an Anti-Terrorist Unit, who has 24 hours to foil an assassination attempt on a future Prime Minister while managing a kidnapped family, corruption, and a mole in his agency

Led by Anil Kapoor in one of his most definitive roles, the show 24 built a strong following for its real-time narrative, sharp pacing, and high production value, something that still feels distinctive even today. Episodes from both seasons of the high-octane thriller will be available to stream on JioHotstar, April 24th onwards, with 8 episodes dropping every Friday. 

The return of 24 comes at a time when audiences are increasingly leaning into fast-paced, genre-driven content, making its arrival on JioHotstar particularly timely. With its tightly woven plotlines and relentless sense of urgency, the series has remained a strong recall title for viewers who enjoy edge-of-the-seat thrillers.

Anil Kapoor talks about 24 streaming on JioHotstar

Sharing his thoughts, Anil Kapoor said, “I’ve played many intense and action-driven roles over the years, but 24 was never just another show for me, it was an adrenaline rush like no other. The pace, the pressure, and the real-time storytelling pushed me to stay constantly on edge, both as an actor and as a storyteller. It’s a project that challenged me in the best way and continues to be very close to my heart. I’m excited that it’s now coming to JioHotstar, and I look forward to audiences experiencing that thrill all over again.”

Don’t miss the action unfold in real time once again, 24 streaming from April 24, exclusively on JioHotstar.

Following a widely acclaimed turn in Season 1, Adarsh returns to reprise his role as “Slightly” — a character noted for its emotional depth and complexity, earning him praise from audiences and critics internationally.

Peter Dinklage joins Alien Earth Season 2

In a significant global casting development, Emmy-winning actor Peter Dinklage has come on board for the second season of Alien: Earth, joining Adarsh Gourav in the much-anticipated next chapter of the sci-fi series, which is set to begin filming next month.

Created by Noah Hawley, with Ridley Scott serving as executive producer, Alien: Earth has quickly established itself as a major global sci-fi title rating amongst the top shows of 2025. The addition of Peter Dinklage, best known for his Emmy-winning performance in Game of Thrones, further elevates the scale and anticipation surrounding the upcoming season.

Season 2 will see Adarsh share screen space with a formidable ensemble cast including Sydney Chandler, Alex Lawther, Essie Davis, Samuel Blenkin, Babou Ceesay, Timothy Olyphant, and Peter Dinklage.

Adarsh Gourav talks about joining Season 2

Speaking about returning to the series, Adarsh Gourav said, “Being a part of Alien: Earth has been an incredibly special experience for me. The response to Season 1, especially to my character, has been truly overwhelming and deeply encouraging. Slightly is such a unique and emotionally complex character, and getting the opportunity to explore his journey further in Season 2 is something I’m really looking forward to. Working with a team led by visionaries like Noah Hawley and Ridley Scott is inspiring in every sense, and being surrounded by such talented co-actors pushes you to constantly grow. I’m excited to get back on set and dive into this world again.”

Earlier, he had said about Season 1, “When we began filming Alien Earth, none of us could have imagined the kind of impact it would go on to have. It was an ambitious story, emotionally and visually, and seeing it strike such a chord with viewers everywhere has been overwhelming.”

With filming set to commence shortly, the upcoming season marks another significant milestone for Adarsh Gourav as he continues to expand his presence on the global stage.

Glory trailer released

Marking a first-of-its-kind launch, Netflix brought the world of Glory to life by hosting a LIVE boxing face-off between Pulkit Samrat and professional boxer Neeraj Goyat, which blurred the lines between fiction and reality to create an immersive experience.

The trailer of Glory shows the dynamics beyond the family open into a world where every character has a stake. Sikandar Kher’s Kookie Gulati looms over Shaktigarh, as Ashutosh Rana’s Viju Sanghwan drives the boxing rivalry. Meanwhile, Sayani Gupta’s Joyna is on her toes, digging into Nihal’s death, uncovering deeper links, while Kashmira Pardeshi’s Bharti stands at the centre, as a sharp and unpredictable character.

About Glory

The power-packed cast of Glory includes Divyenndu, Pulkit Samrat, Suvinder Vicky, Jannat Zubair, Ashutosh Rana, Sikandar Kher, Sayani Gupta, Yashpal Sharma, Kashmira Pardeshi and Kunal Thakur. 

At its core, Glory is the story of a fractured family forced back together. Raghubir Singh (Suvinder Vicky) is a formidable boxing coach who is obsessed with Olympic glory but struggles to hold together a legacy that is slowly unravelling under the weight of strained relationships. Meanwhile, his sons Dev (Divyenndu) and Ravi (Pulkit Samrat) return to Shaktigarh to reveal the truth behind the brutal assault on their sister Gudiya (Jannat Zubair) and the mysterious death of a rising Olympic boxing star, Nihal Singh. 

Speaking about the series, Tanya Bami, Director, Series, India at Netflix, said, “ With Glory, we set out to do something truly first-of-its-kind: a sports crime thriller that asks what ambition, legacy, truth, and revenge really mean when they collide at the highest stakes. Set against the fiercely competitive world of boxing and the thirst for Olympic gold, Glory goes far beyond conventional sports drama, layering intense emotion with a suspense-driven core that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. With Karan Anshuman`s singular creative vision at the helm, and an exceptional ensemble in Divyenndu, Pulkit Samrat, Survinder Vicky, Sikander Kher, Ashutosh Rana, Sayani Gupta, and Jannat Zubair, we believe this series will be the perfect binge watch ."

Creator and director Karan Anshuman shared, “At its heart, Glory is about the pursuit of Olympic gold — the most exalted idea of physical achievement — and the darkness that can gather around that dream. The series explores how inherited ambition, violence, and the hunger for greatness can corrupt everything around it.”

Karmanya Ahuja added, “In Glory, boxing is language. It is how people express grief, love, rage, ambition, and even silence. The ring becomes an altar for personal expression.”

Produced by Mohit Shah and Karan Anshuman under the Atomic Films banner, the story is written by Anshuman, Ahuja, and Vaibhav Vishal, and directed by Anshuman and Kanishk Varma. Glory premieres on Netflix on May 1, 2026.

Glory trailer released

Marking a first-of-its-kind launch, Netflix brought the world of Glory to life by hosting a LIVE boxing face-off between Pulkit Samrat and professional boxer Neeraj Goyat, which blurred the lines between fiction and reality to create an immersive experience.

The trailer of Glory shows the dynamics beyond the family open into a world where every character has a stake. Sikandar Kher’s Kookie Gulati looms over Shaktigarh, as Ashutosh Rana’s Viju Sanghwan drives the boxing rivalry. Meanwhile, Sayani Gupta’s Joyna is on her toes, digging into Nihal’s death, uncovering deeper links, while Kashmira Pardeshi’s Bharti stands at the centre, as a sharp and unpredictable character.

About Glory

The power-packed cast of Glory includes Divyenndu, Pulkit Samrat, Suvinder Vicky, Jannat Zubair, Ashutosh Rana, Sikandar Kher, Sayani Gupta, Yashpal Sharma, Kashmira Pardeshi and Kunal Thakur. 

At its core, Glory is the story of a fractured family forced back together. Raghubir Singh (Suvinder Vicky) is a formidable boxing coach who is obsessed with Olympic glory but struggles to hold together a legacy that is slowly unravelling under the weight of strained relationships. Meanwhile, his sons Dev (Divyenndu) and Ravi (Pulkit Samrat) return to Shaktigarh to reveal the truth behind the brutal assault on their sister Gudiya (Jannat Zubair) and the mysterious death of a rising Olympic boxing star, Nihal Singh. 

Speaking about the series, Tanya Bami, Director, Series, India at Netflix, said, “ With Glory, we set out to do something truly first-of-its-kind: a sports crime thriller that asks what ambition, legacy, truth, and revenge really mean when they collide at the highest stakes. Set against the fiercely competitive world of boxing and the thirst for Olympic gold, Glory goes far beyond conventional sports drama, layering intense emotion with a suspense-driven core that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. With Karan Anshuman`s singular creative vision at the helm, and an exceptional ensemble in Divyenndu, Pulkit Samrat, Survinder Vicky, Sikander Kher, Ashutosh Rana, Sayani Gupta, and Jannat Zubair, we believe this series will be the perfect binge watch ."

Creator and director Karan Anshuman shared, “At its heart, Glory is about the pursuit of Olympic gold — the most exalted idea of physical achievement — and the darkness that can gather around that dream. The series explores how inherited ambition, violence, and the hunger for greatness can corrupt everything around it.”

Karmanya Ahuja added, “In Glory, boxing is language. It is how people express grief, love, rage, ambition, and even silence. The ring becomes an altar for personal expression.”

Produced by Mohit Shah and Karan Anshuman under the Atomic Films banner, the story is written by Anshuman, Ahuja, and Vaibhav Vishal, and directed by Anshuman and Kanishk Varma. Glory premieres on Netflix on May 1, 2026.

“Juggling multiple roles feels like switching playlists in my head. One moment I’m in actor mode, and the next, I’m a producer,” she laughed.

Mujhe Jaan Na Kaho Meri Jaan is a queer drama directed by Sanjoy Nag. Tripathi has understood that seeing the big picture is the most important lesson in production. “As a first-time producer, the biggest challenge has been understanding the scale of responsibility. It’s not just about the story, it’s about making sure every part aligns — from finances to scheduling to people. It can get intense, but it’s also rewarding to see your vision come together.”

Tillotama Shome

Tillotama Shome will lead Tripathi’s production ‘Mujhe Jaan Na Kaho Meri Jaan’

Matka King follows the story of a gambling lord, played by Vijay Varma, who undergoes a meteoric rise in the 1960s and 1970s in Mumbai. The cotton mills of Mumbai play an important part in the show and its narrative.

Kritika essays the role of Gulrukh, a Parsi woman, who acts as a catalyst to the evolution of the game of Matka. The actress spoke with IANS during the promotions of the show and shed light on making her way around a story set back in time.

She told IANS, “See, the world was already created through the story. So, you are already inhabiting that world as an actor. As soon as you go on the set, as soon as you enter that costume, you enter that world. That`s a gateway to go into it. And, of course, there`s a language of that era. There is stability in that era, things move slow because the technology is not fast. There is the analog world”.

She further mentioned, “At one point, Matka`s numbers also start coming on the phone in the show. So, that was very interesting because at many places, we had to also pretend that there was no sound because at that time, there was no sound. And there was an operator. I don`t think Gen Z will even know these words. Back then, people used to connect lines manually. A whole department used to do that”.

“We don`t know how it happens today because the technology has gone so far ahead. So, there were such interesting things that belonged to the era before my time. So, I find it fascinating. It was fascinating to be around it. But I think the people and the psyche of people and our addiction to hope, we can still understand that and portray it”, she added.

Matka King skillfully blends the technology of its time with the show’s narrative and acts as a vehicle to tell the story.

The show is set to drop on April 17 on Prime Video.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

Vijay Varma. Pic/Youtube

Insiders revealed that Manjule deliberately kept Siingh away from the promotions to maintain intrigue. “His character comes towards the end, but it’s meant to shift the narrative. The actor shot his portions mid-2025. His character leaves things at a point where you know he will matter a lot, going forward,” said an insider. Set in Mumbai of the 1960s, Matka King revolves around a small-time cotton trader who starts a gambling racket.

Viineet Kumar Siingh will also be seen in:

. ‘Shakti Shalini’ 
. ‘Dahaad 2’

What is Jerax about?

In the town of Rayadurga, Prakasha (Nagabhushana) is the kind of young man no one really notices, a xerox shop worker who hopes life might one day acknowledge him. His world changes the moment a curious piece of Thayitha merges with his old copying machine. Suddenly, copies stop being copies. They start walking, speaking, remembering.

A duplicate of one man becomes the catalyst for another. A small lie becomes a larger threat. As identical faces begin appearing in unexpected corners of the town, Rayadurga starts to fracture, socially, politically, emotionally. And behind it all stands Prakasha, watching as the line between the life he wanted and the life, he unleashed dissolves into something darker, stranger, and impossible to reverse.

Team talks about Jerax

Producer Daali Dhananjaya shares, “What fascinated me about Jerax from the beginning was how the story hides a philosophical punch behind a seemingly bizarre idea. A xerox machine that prints humans sounds outrageous, but the emotional truth beneath it is painfully real, what happens when people refuse to face their own shadows? The series explores loneliness, power, guilt, and the kind of moral collapse that can begin in silence. We were drawn to its courage. This is not just a thriller or a fantasy; it’s a mirror held up to the parts of ourselves we do not want copied.”

Director and writer Srinidhi Bengaluru adds up, “Jerax was born from a very simple fear, what if the version of you that you try to hide suddenly stood in front of you? The duplicates in the show are not monsters; they are reflections. Through Malavalli’s politics, relationships, and chaos, I wanted to explore how identity breaks, multiplies, and corrupts under pressure. I didn’t want the fantasy to be an escape; I wanted it to feel like an intrusion into everyday life. When the extraordinary enters the ordinary, the truth of a person becomes impossible to mask, and that’s the heartbeat of Jerax.”

Actor Nagabhushana said, “Prakasha is a man the world never really looked at, until he begins creating versions of it. Playing him demanded stepping into a space where innocence, insecurity, love, and obsession are constantly shifting. He is not evil, but he becomes dangerous; he is not powerful, but he becomes responsible for overwhelming consequences. Jerax forced me to explore how fragile a person becomes when they are starved of visibility, and how power can turn that fragility into something unpredictable. It’s a character who keeps slipping away from definition, and that is what made him both haunting and human.”

Good Omens finale trailer out

Good Omens 3 picks up where the ineffable story left off in Season Two as the beloved and unlikely duo – angel Aziraphale and demon Crowley return to face their most epic and personal adventure yet. Their millennia-long friendship has been fractured ever since Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) accepted the offer to return to Heaven, leaving Crowley (David Tennant) behind. Now, as the newly appointed Supreme Archangel, Aziraphale is tasked with overseeing the Second Coming, a monumental responsibility that weighs heavily on him, and is made worse when his plans cause some consternation among the other angels. Meanwhile, heartbroken Crowley finds himself at rock bottom, wandering the streets of Soho.

As the fate of the universe hangs in the balance, Aziraphale and Crowley must confront their relationship, heal old wounds and rediscover their bond. From navigating London’s gangsters to thwarting Hellish threats, they face personal betrayals and the complexities of their own emotions in this timeless expedition. Together, they must decide whether their friendship – and the world itself – is worth saving.

About Good Omens 3

Good Omens 3 stars Michael Sheen and David Tennant as angel Aziraphale and demon Crowley, respectively. Also reprising their roles are Doon Mackichan as Michael, Gloria Obianyo as Uriel, Liz Carr as Saraqael, Paul Chahidi as Sandalphon, Quelin Sepulveda as Muriel, and Sir Derek George Jacobi as The Metatron. Bilal Hasna joins the cast as Jesus.

Rob Wilkins of Narrativia, representing Terry Pratchett’s estate; as well as BBC Studios Comedy’s Chief Creative Officer, Josh Cole serve as executive producers alongside Rachel Talalay, who directs the finale. Sarah-Kate Fenelon and Chris Newman serve as producers.

Good Omens launched globally as a limited series on Prime Video in May 2019 and is based on the beloved 1990 novel, Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch, by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman. The first season won the Hugo Award and emerged as a favourite amongst millions of passionate global fans, leading to the show getting renewed for seasons 2 and 3.

HBO Max launches in India

Kevin Vaz, CEO – Entertainment, JioStar, said: “This marks a defining moment in how premium global content is accessed and experienced in India. By bringing HBO Max to JioHotstar, we are creating a unified destination for premium international content and raising the bar for quality content once again. We are combining scale, curation, quality and ease of access. This unlocks a deeper and more immersive entertainment experience for audiences nationwide.”

James Gibbons, President of APAC, WBD said: “India is one of the most vibrant streaming markets globally, and in JioHotstar, we have a partner with unmatched scale and a deep understanding of local audiences. The launch of HBO Max exclusively with JioHotstar marks the next chapter in our long-standing collaboration, enabling us to broaden the reach of our premium brands and franchises, and build deeper connections with fans across the country.”

HBO Max and Warner Bros shows now available in India

HBO Max offers a rich and expansive catalogue of globally celebrated series, including highly anticipated upcoming titles and new seasons of HBO and Max Originals. Premiering today in India, fans can enjoy season three of the critically acclaimed Euphoria, with the next installment of House of the Dragon, new series from DC Studios Lanterns, as well as the hugely anticipated eight-episode first season of the upcoming HBO Original Harry Potter series, titled Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone - all still to come in 2026. Series available to stream now via the HBO Max hub include The Last of Us, The White Lotus, The Pitt, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Succession, Dune: Prophecy, Sex and the City and Game of Thrones.

With the renewed partnership, JioHotstar subscribers can also enjoy perennial fan favourite Warner Bros. Television series Friends and The Big Bang Theory for the first time, alongside popular shows The Vampire Diaries, Supernatural and The Flash. Film fans can catch the celebrated Warner Bros. slate, including the beloved collections of Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, as well as blockbusters from the DC Universe.

The HBO Max hub is available alongside JioHotstar’s existing portfolio of international and local content, delivering greater choice and accessibility to audiences across the country. Starting at Rs 49 per month, the add-on pack provides access to the HBO Max hub along with JioHotstar’s full international content library.  

Uorfi Javed on not `making it` in the industry

She expressed disappointment that her journey has not shaped up as she expected, and said that she still does not feel like she has truly "made it" in the industry.

Speaking about Follow Kar Lo Yaar, she penned, "Now, this was my reality show, something which I dreamt of, something which I wanted more than my life. I can never forget the day I got the call from smitalshintre saying the show is finally happening. I gave my 500 percent to this show, I thought it will change my life and it did. Not because of the fame or validation but because of the people I met through the show. The entire team, who I still talk to, who I call my closest friends. I remember losing my hair, weight, sleep, everything before the show."

She wrote that after emerging as the winner of The Traitors India, she believed her life would transform again with fame and money and she would have no worries left. "Then I got this show - I thought winning this show will change my life (when I talk about change my life I mean blind fame and money), I thought after this show I will be a household name, I will never have to worry a single day in my life, everything will be sorted. That didn`t happen but I still won. I had never won anything in my life. This was a crazy experience."

Uorfi on receiving threats from politicians

Uorfi Javed mentioned that she has been abused and even received threats from politicians, normal people and people from the industry, prompting her to visit the police station numerous times.

"I`ve been subjected to the harshest of trolling and abuses. Politicians, normal people, industry people, I`ve been abused, trolled, given threats. I`ve gone to the police station so many times. I still feel I haven`t reached my full potential. I still keep asking universe mera time kab aayega? With every step I took I just wanted to be accepted by the people, appreciated. I chose a very very unconventional and difficult way for myself. The world wasn`t kind to me. There was a time I used to cry when someone complimented me cause I was only used to the abuses. I`m still waiting for that one moment, one opportunity."

Set in a Mumbai housing society, Last Man in Tower revolves around a teacher who refuses to sell his flat to a real estate developer when the building is under consideration for redevelopment. Through the story, Adiga explored themes of greed, ambition, and urban development. 

Aravind Adiga. Pic/AFP

Dutta’s character is expected to be central to this conflict. A source told mid-day, “Divya’s antagonist isn’t one-note; she is shown as ruthless and calculative, but there is also vulnerability to her. This film thrives on tension between her and Manoj’s characters.”

The adaptation is currently in development, with Rekhi and the team aiming to take the project on floors in the second half of 2026. The source added, “Constant redevelopment of residential properties that builders undertake for their profits is a reality of our times. The story is just as relevant today as it was in 2011.”  

From Aravind Adiga’s pages to the screen

. ‘Selection Day’ (2018)

. ‘The White Tiger’ (2021)

Being a part of Manjule’s on-screen world is something the newcomer had never imagined. “Ghar Banduk Biryani was my first exposure to the intensity and discipline that filmmaking demands. After that, when Nagrajji encouraged me to audition for Matka King, it felt like a moment of trust to me. On set, there were moments when I doubted myself, but his quiet reassurance, patience, and guidance helped me find my footing.”

Nagraj Manjule. Pic/Instagram

Ashwini plays one of the four daughters to Gulshan Grover, whose character is pitted against Varma’s protagonist in the drama set in Mumbai of the 1960s. Manjule recalled that his casting team was in search of a fresh face for the part. The director told mid-day, “The production team auditioned many candidates in search of a fresh face. Ultimately, Simran’s audition stood out due to the freshness and vulnerability she brought to the role.” 

Sairat. Pic/Youtube

Nagraj Manjule launched Rinku Rajguru and Akash Thosar with ‘Sairat’

King to make his acting debut with Lukkhe

King, whose real name is Arpan Kumar Chandel, has given many superhit tracks like Maan Meri Jaan, Tu Aake Dekhle among others, which went viral on the internet. Now, the rapper is set to shine on the screen in a new avatar as an actor in the upcoming web series named Lukkhe. 

Created and executive produced by Agrim Joshi and Debojit Das Purkayastha, it is an eight-episode series headlined by Raashii Khanna and King. Along with the acclaimed Indian rapper, songwriter, and singer, Lukkhe also stars  Palak Tiwari and Lakshvir Singh Saran in lead roles, along with Nakul Roshan Sahdev, Kritika Bharadwaj, Shivankit Parihar, Yograj Singh, and Ayesha Raza Mishra in pivotal supporting roles. Notably, it also marks the streaming debut of Palak Tiwari. Lukkhe is set to release in over 240 countries and regions worldwide on May 8, 2026.

About Lukkhe

Lukkhe is an intense fictional musical action drama set against the pulsating backdrop of Chandigarh, where rap culture, ambition, and crime intersect. At its core, it is a gripping tale of revenge and redemption, as rival rappers MC Badnaam (King) and OG (Shivankit) are caught in a deeply personal vendetta that blurs the lines between art and animosity. It blends high-octane action, gunfights, and raw musical energy, marking an ultimately coming-of-age story shaped by pain, love, and ambition.

Nikhil Madhok, Director and  Head of Originals, Prime Video, India, says, “At Prime Video, we believe in constantly raising the bar by experimenting with storytelling, whether it’s blending genres, exploring new formats, or championing unconventional narratives. Lukkhe is a strong reflection of this vision, bringing together high-octane action with pulsating rap music, while seamlessly balancing pace with emotional intensity to create a truly distinctive world. At its heart, the series is a compelling story of revenge and redemption, driven by complex characters and the choices they make. With KING and Palak Tiwari making their OTT debuts alongside a stellar ensemble cast, we are confident Lukkhe will be loved by audiences in India and across 240 countries and territories when it premieres on May 8.”

In the series, Vijay essays the role of a fictional gambling lord, who operates a string of matkas (gambling pots) across Mumbai. To fine tune his character, Vijay got in touch with a magician, who taught him the card tricks.

The actor spoke with IANS during the promotions of the show, and shared how he honed his skills with the card, and spent 10 months with the deck of cards.

He told IANS, “I got familiar with the cards in the sense, I learnt how to hold them, shuffle them. I also learnt some tricks. There is a magician called Ashwam. The production guys used to send him to my house. So, I did 12 or 15 sessions with him. Over the span of one month. He used to teach me how to do it with cards, what tricks to learn, how to shuffle it, how to show it. I wanted to show that my character has a second skin, the cards. So, it was a lot of fun to achieve that”.

However, the actor soon realised that cards take away a lot of attention given the tricks and the game, and he was met with the challenge of delivering his lines while being fully immersed in the game.

He said, “When you engage with cards, it takes so much of your energy or attention that you won`t be able to do the scene. Like a new musician can`t sing while playing the harmonium. Either he will play or sing. I wanted to talk while playing the game”.

“The cards were in my hand for 10 months while I was shooting for the series. So, this was the preparation. My director, Nagraj sir and I used to see it daily to see how we can evolve the game. It was very important to establish a trustworthy, honest character in the first episode. So, we tried to make people relate to this character and get them involved in its journey”, he added.

Directed by Nagraj Manjule, ‘Matka King’ is set to stream on Prime Video from April 17, 2026.

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Excerpts from the interview:

What do you feel when you look back at your career?
That can encapsulate a lot of things. I’m very grateful for whatever steps that I have taken till now. To be an actor, I left my city without knowing anyone or anything. I see this journey as something that evolved for me as a better human being. I feel regrets get you nothing. I don’t regret doing anything that came my way. I’ve only had learning on this journey.

Shweta Tripathi Sharma, Harshita Gaur, and Shriya Pilgaonkar on the set; (right) The team of ‘Mirzapur: The Movie’

You’ve played Dimpy Pandit for nine years. What does taking her story to the big screen feel like? Did you imagine the series would ever become this big?
No, this was not on anyone’s mind when we started at all. We just wanted to make a good project. And by God’s grace we reached here. Now, scaling up to 70mm, of course, it’s going to be big in terms of experience because from your mobile and TV screens, it’s suddenly gone to the cinemas. I feel with this you could actually experience it [more closely]. We’ve not had any show converting into a film in the middle of the series, so, I am more excited to watch Mirzapur on the 70mm as the audience.

The film was also shot in Mirzapur. Did that help you understand and perform the role better?
A lot of these places where we shot offer that small-town feel. The moment you move to Varanasi or Mirzapur, that helps way more than maybe shooting in Mumbai for something like this. But, for an actor, it’s ultimately about the imagery in your mind.

There is speculation that the film is a prequel to the series. Is that true?
This is something very interesting, though I probably shouldn’t say anything. You will know about it in a month or so. [But] it’s not a prequel.

How has Dimpy evolved in the film?
I have done something different, which when I started out as Dimpy [in 2018], she would have not thought of doing. But obviously, I can’t share more details on it. Let the trailer come, all your questions will be answered.

You’ve also ventured into production this year with your first short film, Rang De, based on Holi. What sparked that inspiration?
I’ve grown up on stories. I didn’t know the starting steps. I am taking it slow. Because Rang De got a lot of love, it motivated me to do more. I know the kind of stories I want to bring to audience. I want to create a space where my stories don’t force you to feel. [It should be a] place where the audience can breathe with the story. That’s what is in my head right now. Let’s see where it goes.

13
Number of years in the industry

Plans of direction?

Harshita Gaur says that “direction requires a different skill set.” For now, the actor has written a few stories. “My next step is to try and make those. I am still building my thoughts towards it. I want to travel with my stories,” she says.

What stands out, however, is the evolution of Divya Dutta’s character, Kamlesh. Though she appears courageous, the patriarchy ingrained in her drives her to make choices one would least expect from a protagonist. “While writing, I felt like slapping Kamlesh too. When she slaps Pooja [Prasanna Bisht], you see it as her conditioning and illiteracy. We are trying to have a conversation with the audience living in small towns and villages, who don’t even know that [marital rape] is wrong. We wanted our protagonist to be one of them so that people could relate to Kamlesh as she has the same questions. We also wanted to take away the saviour complex. Pooja is the victim of the crime and Kamlesh is the victim of patriarchy,” explains Sharma. 

Divy Nidhi Sharma. Pic/Instagram

The series culminates in a public confrontation, without a definitive punishment. While the ending may feel unsatisfactory, Sharma says the choice was deliberate to retain realism. “How do we show victory in the end that doesn’t sound implausible or impossible? Pooja has a moral compass, but because she is in [trauma], it takes time for her to gather courage. Kamlesh has courage, but she lacks a moral compass. Once they come together, the story revolves around them finding their voice, which is their first victory. We have maintained a realistic depiction. We couldn’t go the legal way or take the vengeance route. I know it is not perfect, but we don’t live in a perfect world.”

Did you know?

The core concept of ‘Chiraiya’ was inspired by the Bengali series ‘Sampurna’ 

He says, “Chiraiya was gut-wrenching. I feel that the audience watching [may] not be able to see it. [I had to put myself] in Arun’s shoes and imagine what would have happened. It was a traumatic experience. Nayyi Navelli was a fun project to write after the intense Chiraiya.”

The Yami Gautam-starrer went on floors in April this year. “Nayyi Navelli is a very beautiful, charming film. It is in the mythology and horror space. But I would like to use the words beautiful and charming,” says the writer, who is known for crafting strong female characters. “The film also has a very strong feminine streak running through it,” he adds.

April
When he cast and crew of  ‘Nayyi Navelli’ began shoot

Divy Nidhi Sharma’s other works:

2023: ‘Laapataa Ladies’ (additional dialogues)
2024: ‘Heeramandi’
2026: ‘Nakhrewaalii’

“I didn’t understand how people would take this character because everybody is doing comedy except me. But now, I [feel] people have liked my character a lot. They didn’t expect such a twist,” says the actor, who plays a newly-appointed judge in the Patparganj district court.

Alia Bhatt and Sharvari

For Bhattacharya, the role may not have been big, but its layers made it tempting. “It was tough because I had to be precise as there is a certain dignity and sanctity attached to the position of a judge. [My character] also had to balance between how much to tell and not. The character was written in a way that you can’t tell whether he is positive or negative. I couldn’t project a lot in this performance because he shouldn’t be seen. If you see him, you 
will find out that something is fishy.”

The actor’s calendar is packed this year. In July, he will be seen in Alpha, starring Alia Bhatt and Sharvari Wagh, and directed by Shiv Rawal. Bhattacharya, who plays a key role in the upcoming instalment of the YRF Spy Universe, has previously worked with Rawal on The Railway Men (2023).

While the actor refuses to divulge details about Alpha, he says, “It was a fantastic shooting for Alpha. Aditya is a young director. He is dedicated and passionate. He leaves no stone unturned to achieve what he wants. The film boasts of good actors and technicians,” he says, adding that he also enjoyed sharing screen space with Bhatt. “She is a good actor. It was during Poacher’s [2024] promotions that I met her for the first time.”

Up next:

After ‘Maamla Legal Hai 2’, Dibyendu Bhattacharya will be seen in Prime Video’s ‘Raakh’, directed by Prosit Roy. The series also features Ali Fazal and Sonali Bendre. “I love the subject and the director. Prosit is a talented man. I have a long association with him,” he says

Alfia Jafry talks about her legacy

“I come from a creative family, but I’ve always believed in carving my own path and letting my work speak for itself. Of course, there’s inspiration all around me, but I’ve never wanted to rely on that. I want every opportunity I get to be because of what I bring to the table as an actor,” she shares.

The Tribe star adds that while legacy can sometimes create expectations, she sees it as a foundation rather than a crutch. “I’ve always wanted to take the longer route if it means learning more and growing as an artist. I don’t want to be known just for where I come from, but for what I bring to the table.”

For Alfia, legacy is a foundation, not a shortcut. She believes that while a creative environment can shape one’s perspective, it is ultimately hard work, discipline, and individuality that define longevity in the industry. Her choices reflect a conscious effort to take on roles that resonate with her sensibilities rather than follow a predictable trajectory.

With The Pyramid Scheme, she marks the beginning of a journey rooted in authenticity and self-belief. The project allows her to present herself not just as someone from a known lineage, but as a performer ready to stand on her own merit.

As audiences get ready to see her on screen, Alfia Jafry is clear about one thing, she’s here to be recognized for her work, and she’s willing to put in everything it takes to earn that space.

About The Pyramid Scheme

The return of 24 comes at a time when audiences are increasingly leaning into fast-paced, genre-driven content, making its arrival on JioHotstar particularly timely. With its tightly woven plotlines and relentless sense of urgency, the series has remained a strong recall title for viewers who enjoy edge-of-the-seat thrillers.

Anil Kapoor on 24 streaming on JioHotstar

Sharing his thoughts, Anil Kapoor said, “I’ve played many intense and action-driven roles over the years, but 24 was never just another show for me, it was an adrenaline rush like no other. The pace, the pressure, and the real-time storytelling pushed me to stay constantly on edge, both as an actor and as a storyteller. It’s a project that challenged me in the best way and continues to be very close to my heart. I’m excited that it’s now coming to JioHotstar, and I look forward to audiences experiencing that thrill all over again.”

With 24 set to stream on JioHotstar, the platform is adding a proven, high-engagement title to its catalogue one that blends nostalgia with the kind of storytelling that continues to resonate with today’s viewers.

Anil pens note as Sonam Kapoor welcomes second boy

On March 30, Anil Kapoor took to social media to express his joy on becoming nana once again as Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja welcomed their second son. Taking to Instagram, the Subedaar actor penned a heartfelt note. 

He wrote, "And just like that... my heart has grown even bigger. Welcome to the world, my little one, you are already so deeply loved. Vayu, you`re a big brother now... and I know you`ll be amazing. Thank you, Sonam and Anand...Nana`s heart is full. Welcome to the madness, my baby-welcome to a lifetime of love."

Speaking on the sidelines of the Women`s Reservation Bill, Shweta emphasised how true progress comes when women are given proportionate opportunities across all spheres of life, further adding how the dynamics have started changing.

In a conversation with ANI, the Mirzapur star shared, "I feel like things are now changing. I feel like, there`s me, there`s Kiran Rao... There are also writers like Juhi Chaturvedi. There is no competition between men and women. But when it comes to the women population, whether it`s in the parliament, behind the camera, or in any industry, it has to be proportionate."

Noting that the representation of women in Parliament has been low in comparison to the overall population, the actor explained how the changing laws will reach every household in the country.

"The representation of women in Parliament or in the Legislative Assemblies is still low in comparison to the population. But the policies, the laws, will affect every household. Women need to be heard and need to be accepted," she added.

Shweta also weighed on the need to learn from the past to ensure a smooth and faster transition toward equality.

Acknowledging that the Women`s Reservation Bill marks a significant step forward, the challenge lies with its effective implementation, she said.

"This is the beginning, and everything has a beginning. It happens little by little... we will progress, we will go back two steps, and it`s very heartbreaking and very frustrating. It is the same with the Women`s Reservation Bill, but we have to be at it," Shweta said.

The actor also spoke about how public figures must voice their thoughts on such matters, further explaining that the responsibility equally lies with everyone, including women themselves.

"Women don`t need to wait for superheroes to bring a change. They must be their own superheroes," Shweta asserted.

The remarks came in the backdrop of the government`s ongoing plans to bring an amendment bill to increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 816 from 543 seats. The idea is to have at least 273 seats reserved for women.

According to sources, the key agenda may include amendments to the 2023 Nari Shakti Vandan Act and the introduction of the Delimitation Commission Bill.

The sources said that the Centre has planned to take the 2011 census as the basis for delimitation and seat redistribution. Currently, the Lok Sabha has 543 seats. With a proposed 50 per cent increase, the number of seats will rise to 816, with 273 (about a third) reserved for women.

On the work front for Shweta Tripathi, she will be next seen in the much-awaited Mirzapur: The Film. It is set to hit theatres on September 4, 2026.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever

The 37-year-old actress is currently juggling promotional duties for her series Matka King while simultaneously shooting for her upcoming project. Despite the whirlwind of celebrations, Kritika and her husband, Gaurav Kapur, managed to squeeze in a quick 3 to 4-day getaway to Goa.

Speaking about getting back to work, Kritika said in a statement, “It was a beautiful and special time for me personally but I was always sure that I won’t take a long break pre and post wedding.”

However, the couple are now back to work. Gaurav, too is keeping busy with the ongoing IPL season.

She added, “Gaurav and I are both back to doing what we love with new energy. I’m really excited to share more about Matka King and going back to set for my upcoming film that I’ve been training for. Busy days ahead, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Sources close to the actress reveal that Kritika has been diligently managing her time between promotional events for Matka King and her ongoing shoot, showcasing her dedication and passion for her craft.

Kritika and Gaurav got married on March 11 in an intimate wedding setting with their families and a close circle of friends in attendance. They had their registrar wedding at home.

Talking about Kritika, she made her acting debut in 2007 with Yahan Ke Hum Sikandar. In 2009, she played a singer, Arohi, in Kitani Mohabbat Hai opposite Karan. She was then seen in Pyaar Ka Bandhan, Kitani Mohabbat Hai 2, Kuch Toh Log Kahenge.

In 2015, Kritika played a reporter, Ananya Kashyap, opposite Rajeev Khandelwal, in Reporters. She was then seen as Princess Chandrakanta in Prem Ya Paheli – Chandrakanta. She made her film debut in 2018 with Mitron. In 2021, she played a college student, Sana in the web series Tandav.

The actress played a reporter, Vidhi, in the 2023 film Bheed. In the same year, she played Habiba in Bambai Meri Jaan. Her most recent release is The Great Shamsuddin Family.

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Kubbra took to Instagram, where she shared a string of pictures from her luncheon with the cast and crew of the socio-political drama series helmed by Prakash Jha.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Kubbra Sait (@kubbrasait)

For the caption, she wrote: “The grand slam Sankalp reunion!! How could we not celebrate in true prakashjproductions style… lunch + laughs always So much LOVE.”

The show, which also stars Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub and Neeraj Kabi, explores how power is manufactured not through elections, but through mentorship and institutional control. Inspired by the ancient Chanakya-Chandragupta chronicles, the series reimagines political strategy for modern India, where classrooms replace battlefields and bureaucrats replace soldiers, as per the synopsis.

Talking about the 42-year-old actress, she is known for her work in films such as Ready, Sultan, Deva and Son of Sardaar 2. She has also worked in the OTT in projects such as RejctX, The Verdict - State vs Nanavati, Farzi, Shehar Lakhot, The Trial, Sacred Games and Foundation.

She was recently seen in the reality show Rise and Fall hosted by Ashneer Grover. It is based on the British show of the same name. It has contestants divided themselves into the Rulers and the Workers. While the Rulers lived in a luxurious penthouse, making the decisions, the Workers lived in the basement, carrying out tasks to earn money for the prize pot.

She will next be seen in the Varun Dhawan-starrer Hain Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hain a romantic-comedy, which also stars Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde.

The title is reportedly inspired by the song Ishq Sona Hai from David Dhawan`s 1999 blockbuster Biwi No.1, featuring Salman Khan, Karisma Kapoor, and Sushmita Sen.

Backed by Ramesh Taurani under the banner of TIPS, the much-talked-about drama will see Mrunal Thakur, Mouni Roy, Chunkey Panday, Maniesh Paul, Jimmy Shergill, Rakesh Bedi, Ali Asgar, Kubbra Sait, Rohit Saraf, Rajeev Khandelwal, Nitish Nirmal, and Sreeleela in key roles, along with others.

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Jackie Shroff. Pic/Rane Ashish

Apparently the actor’s exit comes down to scheduling conflicts. A source revealed, “Shilpa was excited about the material and the chance to collaborate with Jackie again after Jung [2000]. But the dates could not be aligned, given her existing commitments.” The show, backed by Boong producers Shujaat Saudagar and Vikesh Bhutani, is expected to go on floors later this month.

Nupur Asthana

With the timeline locked, the makers have moved swiftly to secure a replacement. And a strong performer at that — Shefali Shah. Word is that the actor is in advanced talks to headline the story. Another insider shared, “The makers needed someone who could bring gravitas to the part. Shefali was always on their wishlist. The conversations have been positive, and the teams are now finalising the paperwork and dates.” 

mid-day reached out to Bhutani, who didn’t respond till press time.

8
Episodes in the slice-of-life series

Next, Sayani Gupta will be seen in the Netflix series, ‘Glory’, led by Suvinder Vicky. Pic/Youtube

“It’s one of the best scripts I have ever read,” Gupta said of the international co-production. “We are hoping to make it the way we want to; it’s ambitious. There are such amazing storytellers and stories around. The idea is to be involved in them in some way.” 

Her maiden directorial venture, ‘Aasmani’, has Dia Mirza (R) as a co-producer and Nikkhil Advani (C) as an executive producer. Pic/Instagram

Juggling acting, writing, directing, and producing is undeniably tough. As much as she is enjoying her new roles, Gupta asserted that she doesn’t want the actor in her to take a backseat. “I hope people don’t start looking at me as a director and producer only, because I want to work as an actor as well,” she laughed. 

Indian cinema has had its fair share of female actors who successfully turned filmmakers. The new director said she draws inspiration from the ones who came before her and made the path easier for their next generation. “The idea is to do all of it. It is hard, but there are so many women who have done it. One of the reasons I wanted to be in movies was Aparna Sen. As a kid, I grew up watching her films. She is a powerhouse performer and such a sensitive filmmaker. Then of course there’s Nandita [Das], and Konkona [Sensharma]! She is such a terrific actor, and her first directorial venture is a perfect film. I saw A Death in the Gunj [2016] six times.”

Talking about choosing Kaptaan, Saqib shared his instant excitement. “I’m the Kaptaan, they offered me a Kaptaan…,” he said, adding that it was a character he had been waiting for. “It was just a character that I hadn’t gotten in a really long time… somebody who has a lot of swag but yet has a backstory of his own, has an emotional turmoil that he’s going through, yet he has to play this strong guy all the time.”

On the layers of his character in Kaptaan

He emphasised the complexity of the role, calling it a perfect mix of contrasts. “So I feel like there was a lot of dichotomy in the character, which got me really excited as an actor because I thought, I’ll get to do a lot.” He further explained how the OTT format helped him explore the role in depth. “It already allows you to get deeper into your character vis-a-vis a feature film… there was a backstory, there were individual relationships… it just gave me so much to play with as an actor.”

Recalling the intense shoot conditions, Saqib painted a vivid picture of the team’s camaraderie. “When we were shooting, the weather was 45 degrees. There used to be one fan in front of which we would stick to each other,” he said. He added, “We have survived together in that heat… after one point, I was not able to understand what is my sweat, what is Anjum’s sweat… sometimes while fighting, someone got hurt.” Despite the challenges, he noted, “Now when we sit back… we are like, it was all worth it.”

Saqib Saleem reacts to 8-hour work debate

On the much-discussed 8-hour shift debate, Saqib offered a balanced take. He said, “When I work with someone, all these things are sorted before the shoot—it’s not something that suddenly happens on set. If I’m making a film that can’t afford an eight-hour shift, I make it clear to the actor in advance. Every film has a budget; films don’t flop, budgets do. The same film made within the right budget versus an expensive one makes a huge difference. That said, if I have the flexibility to spend a little extra to give someone comfort especially if they have personal responsibilities like a child I’m more than willing to do that and figure it out. But some films just don’t allow that. The kind of films I’ve made often require everyone to put in extra effort because there’s limited budget, and people end up working 10–12 hours as per the project’s needs. However, if I ever have the budget to offer better comfort to someone I’m working with, I would absolutely do it why wouldn’t I?”

With Kaptaan, Saqib Saleem brings both intensity and nuance, marking a compelling new chapter in his career.