Keerthy Suresh reveals Samantha Ruth Prabhu suggested her name for 'Baby John' with Varun Dhawan: ‘Honestly, I was very scared’

Keerthy Suresh is basking in the success of her Bollywood film 'Baby John', directed by Kalees. This official adaptation of Atlee's Tamil hit 'Theri' (2016), starring Thalapathy Vijay, received a decent performance in Hindi from Varun Dhawan and Wamiqa Gabbi. Keerthy’s role in 'Baby John' was originally portrayed by Samantha Ruth Prabhu in the Tamil version. Keerthy was excited to take on the role as she shares a close bond with Samantha.

During a recent interaction with Galatta India, Keerthy disclosed that Samantha played a pivotal role in her casting for 'Baby John'. "She probably had me in mind when this was happening; that’s what Varun (Dhawan) also told me. I can’t be grateful enough for that. It’s so sweet of her to say, ‘Keerthy will be able to pull off this character.’” Keerthy added that Samantha’s performance in 'Theri' is one of her favourites in Tamil films. “Honestly, I was very scared," she shared.
Keerthy fondly recounted Samantha’s heartfelt gesture of support during her Bollywood debut in 'Baby John'. Samantha shared an Instagram story praising Keerthy's portrayal, expressing, "I wouldn’t have shared this one with anyone else, but you." The 'Mahanati' actress described the message as incredibly sweet and deeply meaningful, highlighting how it enhanced her excitement for the role. She also expressed her joy in bringing one of her favourite characters to life in Hindi, marking an ideal start to her Bollywood journey.

Keerthy and Samantha previously worked together in Nag Ashwin’s acclaimed biographical drama 'Mahanati'. The film also featured Dulquer Salmaan, Vijay Deverakonda, and Bhanupriya in key roles, and Keerthy received the National Film Award for Best Actress for her portrayal.
Meanwhile, 'Baby John', starring Varun Dhawan in the lead role alongside Wamiqa and Keerthy, earned approximately Rs 30 crores in theatres within six days of its release. It premiered on December 25, coinciding with Christmas.