“Why would anyone come to theatres to watch a TV actor?”
That was the blunt question director Vidhu Vinod Chopra asked Vikrant Massey when casting for 12th Fail. Today, that same “TV actor” stands tall with a National Award for Best Actor, proving that grit, grace, and raw talent can rewrite destiny.
The Humble Beginnings
Before Bollywood knew his name, Vikrant was a familiar face in Indian households:
- Debut: Dhoom Machaao Dhoom (2007) as a teenage musician
- Breakthrough: Balika Vadhu as Shyam Singh, a role that made him a household name
- Other TV gems: Dharam Veer, Qubool Hai, and Ajab Gajab Ghar Jamai
The Leap of Faith
Quitting television wasn’t easy. Vikrant faced financial strain, and industry skepticism. But his wife, Sheetal Thakur, stood by him “like a rock” during the toughest phase.
His film journey began with:
- Lootera (2013) – a small role, but a big step
- A Death in the Gunj – his first lead, critically acclaimed
- Chhapaak, Dil Dhadakne Do, Lipstick Under My Burkha – each role added depth to his cinematic persona
The OTT King
Vikrant didn’t just conquer the big screen—he ruled the digital space: Mirzapur, Broken But Beautiful, Haseen Dillruba, Love Hostel – showcasing romance, rage, and everything in between Sector 36 – where he played a chilling serial killer, shocking fans with his intensity
The National Award Moment
In 12th Fail, Vikrant portrayed IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma—a man who rose from poverty to power. The performance was so raw, so real, it moved the nation. He shared the Best Actor win with Shah Rukh Khan (Jawan), calling it “a dream” to be mentioned alongside SRK.
What’s Next?
He’s now set to play Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in an upcoming biopic—a spiritual leap for an actor who’s mastered the emotional spectrum.