I am a lead actor, I am never going to settle for less: Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra talks about playing the antagonist in her Hollywood debut, response from co-stars in the west about Indian actors, exploring world cinema, and more.

Priyanka Chopra recently made news when she became the only Indian actor to present an award at the Emmys. Besides that, the second season of her American TV show, which will soon go on air, is also creating quite a buzz.

Priyanka Chopra talks about exploring world cinema and working in different international film industries. (AP)

Here, Priyanka talks about her Hollywood debut, and why she will never “play a sidekick”.

What’s the best compliment you have received from your co-stars in the west?
Whenever I am shooting in New York, USA, or anywhere else, massive crowds gather and wait outside the sets. They (her co-actors) find that fascinating. They are intrigued by how people find out where I am shooting. I don’t know how to explain to them that this is how it works with Indian actors. Our fans are amazing. They love us, and always come to give us that love and support. I find it amazing to see their reactions.

How was the experience of shooting for your debut Hollywood film, Baywatch?
We finished the shoot in April. The film will release in May next year. Shooting for the movie was fun. I have played negative characters before in Aitraaz (2004) and Saat Khoon Maaf (2011). I enjoyed playing an antagonist in this film too. In fact, the interesting part was that the villain’s role was actually written for a man. A role written for a guy, but played by a woman — that was a big win for me. I never like to walk the path of convention. I didn’t want to play a sidekick. I was clear about this even when I signed my TV show. I said I am a lead actor, and I am used to seeing my face on a poster. I am never going to settle for less. The same rule applies even to my movies.

Apart from Hollywood, are you also looking at acting in other international film industries?
I am a Hindi film actor. I will go where my work takes me, whether it is the US, UK or Germany. My show now airs in about 216 countries. I am speaking different languages. I’m meeting people in different countries. So, it will be fascinating to be part of world cinema.