‘I got removed from the Prithviraj film...’: Joju George

From being a simple self-made actor to now basking in pan-Indian fame, the rise of Joju George has been nothing short of dream-like.

Now one of the most sought-after actors in the country, his latest outing comes in the form of Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam and headlined by the presence of Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan, Trisha, and an array of other actors. Thug Life is currently running in theatres.

A few days ago, Joju made moving revelations about his initial days in the industry. Speaking at a promotional event for Thug Life, he said, “I have done so many small roles in films that it can be said I’ve acted in as many as 125 films or so. From the realization in 2010 to bagging a role in 2013, to winning laurels for my performance in Joseph in 2018, to marking my directorial debut with Pani in 2024—it has just been a magical ride,” the talented actor said.

“I was overwhelmed by Kamal sir’s appreciation of my acting—he praised my film Iratta. I mean, it means a lot coming from a legend like him. I am always a student and try to better myself with every passing film,” Joju stated.

At the event, where Joju also sang a Tamil song, the actor recalled how he was removed from a Prithviraj film during his early days. “I could not pull off an emotional scene. After getting it wrong a few times, the assistant director replaced me with someone else. I could have taken it as an insult—but then I also thought that there’s no way forward but to improve myself,” the actor recollected.

In cinema, a new star is born every other Friday, but real talent goes the distance—entertaining audiences and chiseling and channeling their acting prowess toward greater creative glory. Stars like Joju serve as an inspiration.