Shilpa Shetty Rejects Film Compromises and Targets Theatrical Releases in 2026

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra has stated she is adopting a highly selective approach to her film choices and refusing to compromise on roles, despite the ongoing industry shift towards digital streaming platforms. Speaking in an interview, the actress highlighted her desire for major theatrical releases so her children can finally watch her on the big screen, rather than via preview theatres or Over-The-Top (OTT) releases.

Shetty noted that the filmmaking business has fundamentally changed, with many producers currently opting for the safety of OTT platforms to avoid the financial risks of theatrical releases. She explained that the industry is going through a lull because producers would rather not take the risk, noting that the mathematics and costing of making a film have completely shifted.

Having balanced films, television, and entrepreneurship over her career, Shetty emphasized that she is no longer willing to settle. She expressed a strong desire to justify her screen presence and specifically secure a wide theatrical release. Her son previously watched her 2023 film 'Sukhee' in a preview theatre, but her children have yet to see her in a commercial cinema hall.

Reflecting on 'Sukhee', Shetty expressed disappointment over its limited theatrical run, stating the film did not get enough theatres, which she described as a disservice to the movie. However, she acknowledged that OTT remains a great platform because it allows audiences to discover films at their own convenience.

Currently hosting the cooking reality show 'Maa Hai Na', Shetty described 2026 as a busy year professionally. She also addressed turning down major film projects, stating she stands firmly by her decisions and that the length of a role has never been her main criteria for accepting work.