MEDIUM IS NOT THAT IMPORTANT: JENNIFER
The TV actor talks about her new project, her choice of characters, and the need for socially relevant shows on the small screen
Before entering the world of television, actor Jennifer Winget, as a child, featured in movies such as Akele Hum Akele Tum (1995) and Kuch Naa Kaho (2003). The actor, who has become a popular face on the small screen through shows such as Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Kahin To Hoga, and Dill Mill Gayye, was set to re-enter Bollywood with Kunal Kohli’s Phir Se in 2015, but the film’s release date kept getting pushed due to copyright issues. However, Jennifer says that “acting is important, not the medium”.
Talking about her new show, which is rumoured to be inspired by actor Rajesh Khanna’s film Kati Patang (1970), Jennifer says, “No, [it is] absolutely not [inspired by the movie]. I don’t know where these rumours are coming from.” Going by the promo of the new show, her character seems to be positive. Did she feel the need to take up a positive role after playing a negative one in Beyhadh? “I don’t feel the need to play anything, but as an actor, it (shows) gives me an opportunity to play different characters,” she shares, adding, “Also, I don’t like the terms positive or negative as I think every person has good and bad in them. It’s high time that we explore all these sides on television [to explore human nature].”
Beyhadh went off air in 2017, and it didn’t take her long to accept another show. “It’s because I think that I’m one of the lucky ones who get these kind of opportunities, and when I get one, I don’t waste time in taking them up,” she says.
There was a time when shows used to go on for years, but now after a few months, they get replaced by a new one. Does she think Hindi fiction shows should have a shorter shelf life? “It depends on the story. I cannot speak for all shows,” Jennifer asserts.
Has she ever thought of starring in shows that address social issues? “Absolutely! If any action of ours creates a positive impact, then definitely,” she says. About the kind of awareness she would she like to create, she says, “Environment, keeping the country clean…that’s very important.”
I don’t like the terms positive or negative [characters] as I think every person has good and bad in them. It’s high time that we explore all these sides on television [to explore human nature].
JENNIFER WINGET ACTOR