Kissing scenes added when it wasn't required..: Emraan Hashmi on getting typecast as 'serial kisser'

Mumbai: Actor Emraan Hashmi, often dubbed Bollywood's "serial kisser," has finally opened up about how he felt about the tag during an appearance on Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, The Ranveer Show (TRS).

Hashmi admitted that while the label was once a source of annoyance, he’s come to terms with it over time. “From 2003 to 2012, this image of mine was used to the fullest. It became a label and was even used for marketing. Things (Kissing scenes) were added to films even when they weren’t required,” he said.

The tag, popularised after his roles in the Murder franchise, became so deeply attached to his persona that even news headlines would prefix his name with it. “The media also used to use the tag ‘serial kisser’ before my name wherever my news appeared,” he said, acknowledging that it was a result of choices he had made. “I’m not blaming anyone… I gave it to myself.”

Now, as he steps into more diverse roles, Hashmi shared his desire to evolve. “When you cross that phase, you want to step into something new...But people still say, ‘That (kissing) wasn’t there in this film.’ I’m presenting something new. I’m an actor, it’s my job to play different characters. Why see or say the same thing again?”

Despite past frustrations, the actor now maintains a more relaxed stance. “Otherwise, I’m chill about it. I don’t have many issues with it anymore,” he said.

On the work front, Hashmi will soon be seen as a BSF officer in Ground Zero, which is set to release on 25th April. His other upcoming films include Shootout at Byculla and Awarapan 2.