Actor R. Madhavan is not joining Lokesh Kanagaraj’s upcoming film Benz as the antagonist, he clarified on Thursday, saying the media reports about his entry into the Lokesh Cinematic Universe came as “news” to him.
“Hey, this is news to me .😂as much as it sounds exciting and I would love to be part of a universe like this. I’m surprised with this news because I have no clue about this. Madhavan joins LCU as he roped in for Raghava Lawrence's 'Benz’,” the 54-year-old actor wrote alongside a link to a media report.
Several reports stated that Madhavan has been roped in to play the antagonist in Benz, the upcoming instalment in LCU (Lokesh Kanagaraj Cinematic Universe) starring Raghav Lawrence. The actor has previously played villains in films like Ayutha Ezhuthu, Nishabdham and Shaitaan.
Fans, however, clung on to hope for the actor to join LCU. Tagging Lokesh, a fan wrote, “@Dir_Lokesh Bhau ... u need to make this happen now... we need Maddy Bhau in your universe... plz make this happen.” Another user commented, “One rumour I want to be true @Dir_Lokesh only you can make it happen.”
Benz is the first film in the LCU which will not be directed by Lokesh. Instead, Bakkiyaraj Kannan will helm the movie and Lokesh will write and produce it. The film, starring Raghava Lawrence, was announced in April this year.
On Raghava’s birthday in October, a teaser for Benz was dropped. “A warrior with a cause is the most dangerous soldier 🔥Welcome to the universe @offl_Lawrence master 💥💥Wishing you a very Happy Birthday 🤗❤️,”Lokesh wrote alongside the video on X.
Madhavan last appeared in Vikas Bahl’s supernatural drama Shaitaan, co-starring Ajay Devgn, Jyothika, Janki Bodiwala and Anngad Raaj. According to industry data-tracking site Sacnilk, Shaitaan grossed Rs 213.79 crore nett at the global box office.
The 54-year-old actor has also teamed up with Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna and Arjun Rampal for a new film helmed by Aditya Dhar. The film is reportedly titled Dhurandhar and it is expected to hit theatres next year.
