Whoever the big actor is, I will tell the truth when the right time arrives: Listin calls out cyber attack

Malayalam film producer Listin Stephen has publicly responded to the ongoing controversies surrounding him, alleging that he is the target of a coordinated cyber attack by fans of a popular actor. Speaking to media, Stephen clarified that he had not named any actor specifically, even though speculation has mounted on social media that his earlier comments referred to actor Nivin Pauly.

Earlier, Stephen had hinted that a certain actor in the Malayalam industry had committed a grave mistake and warned that if such actions were repeated, they could lead to serious consequences. This triggered widespread discussion online, with many assuming the actor in question was Nivin Pauly. When directly asked by journalists whether he was referring to Pauly, Stephen refused to confirm or deny.

“Have I ever directly mentioned the name of the actor you’re referring to?” Stephen asked. “If I feel the need to say something, I will do so without fear at the right time. And even if I never get to make another film, I’ll be fine—I’ve earned enough to live a simple life,” he said, firmly.

He further criticised the power dynamic between celebrities and their fans, “Just because someone is a celebrity, should we be attacked for raising our voice? Ordinary people like us made them stars by buying tickets. And now, if their ‘fans’ choose to target someone, what next—should we be erased? You can check and see; I’m under heavy attack online.”

Addressing a separate controversy regarding alleged drug use on the set of Baby Girl, one of his upcoming productions, Stephen denied any personal involvement or knowledge. “How would I know that someone was caught with cannabis on set? Was I growing it? If it were taken from me directly, then yes, question me. I’m making three or four films. How am I supposed to know what everyone brings along with them? If someone gets caught, we can suspend them. That’s the only thing within our control,” he explained.

Stephen also responded to the recent accusations made by producer Sandra Thomas, who had claimed he had "sold out" the Malayalam film industry. “She said I sold out the industry. To whom? For what purpose? I truly don’t understand what she means,” he remarked. “We borrow money at interest. Every film I’m working on right now is being made that way. Ninety-nine percent of people in Malayalam cinema do the same.”

With controversies swirling around both professional and personal conduct within the industry, Stephen’s comments reflect growing tensions behind the scenes in Malayalam cinema.