After charming audiences in shows like Yeh Hai Mohabbatein and Waaris, actor Neel Samarthh is ready to flip the script—quite literally. The romantic-chocolate-hero of television is craving something darker, grittier, and far more explosive. In a recent media interaction, Neel revealed his desire to dive into the world of gangsters and rowdy characters, breaking free from his current clean-cut image.
"I want to do some rowdy, gangster shows, because that’s my forte," Neel said with a smile. "I’m drawn to characters like Vivek Oberoi in Company, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, Gangaajal, or Raajneeti. Sarkar is one of my all-time favorites, and yes—Rangeela too, even though it’s different. I think there’s a gunda in me... though he’s adorable,” he quipped.
Neel emphasized not just his passion but his preparedness for such roles. “I can modulate my voice, bring intensity, and I truly enjoy characters where the ‘Bhai’ energy is everything. I don’t know how to explain it, but I get genuinely pulled toward those parts,” he added, channeling a blend of gangster swagger and endearing honesty.
Ironically, the roles he’s offered seem to always chase the version of him he’s already outgrown. “When I wanted to do positive roles, I got offered negative ones. Now that I want to go all rowdy, I’m getting hero-type, cute, romantic-chocolaty-dimpled roles,” Neel laughed, clearly amused by the unpredictability of the industry.
Currently basking in the success of his latest show Sabse Bada Rupaiya on Atrangii OTT, which revolves around a rural bank heist and co-stars Aparna Dixit, Neel might still be playing it sweet—but don’t be surprised if his next move comes with a leather jacket, a swaggering walk, and a ‘Bhai’ you don’t want to cross.