Arjun Mathur, the rising sensation from ‘Made in Heaven’, reveals that he once got worried with concerns about being pigeonholed into gay roles.
Source: Instant Bollywood
However, his experience on the show led him to a profound realization – that a well-crafted character transcends stereotypes. Although he had previously portrayed a homosexual character in filmmaker Onir’s 2010 anthology ‘I Am’ and the short film ‘Migration’, Arjun Mathur recollects his initial hesitancy in embracing the role of Karan Mehra in ‘Made in Heaven’.
Source: The Indian Express
Mathur expressed, “Shortly after the release of ‘Made in Heaven,’ I found myself presented with an opportunity to play another gay character in a mainstream film. However, I chose to decline the offer. The impact of ‘Made in Heaven,’ particularly, had shifted my perspective. Before agreeing to any new roles, I began to consider the essence of the script rather than my previous portrayals.
Source: Vogue India
Reflecting on this, I realized that the key factor is the quality of the script. If a remarkable script were to come my way, I would wholeheartedly embrace the chance to play a gay character multiple times. My affection for the character of Karan runs deep, and I aspire to embody his essence truthfully onscreen as many times as the opportunity arises,” Mathur expressed.
Source: The Times of Truth
The actor remembered his initial encounter with Reema Kagti and Zoya Akhtar, the visionary creators of the series. During their first meeting, he hadn’t yet perused the script but had already undergone two rounds of auditions. It wasn’t until later that he discovered the nature of his character as a gay individual.
Source: Plex
Mathur recollected “I distinctly recall sharing with Reema and Zoya that I was hesitant about taking on this role again. Having portrayed similar characters twice before, I was wary of being typecast, as tends to happen. I was keen on steering clear of that path. Their response was simple yet impactful: ‘Read the script and then decide.”
As Arjun Mathur stated, “I took it home and read those nine episodes in one night, I was blown away by the fact that this had come to me, there was no way I was letting anyone else do this.”
Source: The Asian Age
The significance of his performance was underscored when the actor secured a nomination in the ‘Best Performance by an Actor category at the esteemed International Emmy Awards in 2020. His portrayal of a closeted homosexual character was imbued with a level of depth and nuance that resonated profoundly with audiences and critics alike.
every scene and frame of both seasons of Made in Heaven has always been perfect but these two scenes definitely take the top spot.
'it's just you and me'
no one has ever done platonic soulmates this well. in undying love with this show once again. #MadeInHeavenS2 pic.twitter.com/5pjuiWgbav— ananya (@notexhausted) August 12, 2023
Despite all the fame coming his way post the success of the first season, his professional life didn’t alter overnight. He revealed, “I wouldn’t say there was an overnight life change like something, also the nomination (Emmy) came unfortunately in the year of COVID-19 when things came to a standstill. I tried a few shoots from home.”
Dia Mirza’s so good in #MadeInHeavenS2 Plays the role of a heartbroken wife whose husband is marrying a second wife with dignity & vulnerability. Gutsy of the makers to touch the issue of polygamy in the muslim community. pic.twitter.com/ZHLLtwdvCH
— Green T ☕️ (@geetmh) August 13, 2023
Amidst the circumstances, Mathur found himself immersed once again in the world of ‘Made in Heaven’. The rhythm of his work felt almost seamless, with the show’s production resuming promptly. This seasoned actor, whose cinematic repertoire includes notable films like “Luck by Chance,” “My Name is Khan,” and “Ankur Arora Murder Case,” offered his perspective on the multifaceted facets of his journey.
I haven't finished #MadeInHeavenS2 yet but before that am now searching and reading all about Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju, first ever Trans actor to play a Trans on a major show. That's the power of representation. Respect to the Made In Heaven Team. pic.twitter.com/j7Ozc73bGy
— Debi (@WhoDebi) August 10, 2023
Apart from Mathur, the ensemble cast of returning actors includes Sobhita Dhulipala, Jim Sarbh, Kalki Koechlin, Shashank Arora, Vijay Raaz, and Shivani Raghuvanshi, all reprising their roles from the inaugural season. Joining them are newcomers Mona Singh, Ishwak Singh, and Trinetra Haldar, who bring fresh energy to the show.
Source: Samachar Central
Furthermore, the season boasts an array of captivating special appearances by renowned figures like Radhika Apte, Mrunal Thakur, Dia Mirza, Pulkit Samrat, Sanjay Kapoor, Anurag Kashyap, and fashion luminary Sabyasachi, among others, enhancing the show’s star-studded lineup.
