Keerthy Suresh’s Bollywood dream began with Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s support but...!

National Award-winning actress Keerthy Suresh celebrates her 33rd birthday today on October 17. As fans celebrate the South Diva's special day, let's look back at a lesser-known chapter in her journey- her much-talked-about Bollywood debut, which came to her through a sweet gesture from her close friend and fellow South star, Samantha Ruth Prabhu.

Also Read: ‘Samantha is unstoppable’, Keerthy Suresh calls Mahanati co-star ‘most strong-hearted’

The Bollywood Dream That Didn’t Shine

Keerthy made Bollywood debut with Baby John, the Hindi remake of Vijay and Samantha’s Tamil hit Theri (2016). The film starred Varun Dhawan and was directed by Kalees, with backing from Atlee, the maker of the original. Samantha had earlier played the female lead in Theri, and when the remake was being planned, she personally suggested Keerthy’s name to the makers. The recommendation was taken seriously, and Keerthy was roped in for her debut in Hindi cinema.

However, despite the star cast and high expectations, Baby John failed to strike gold at the box office. The film struggled to recreate the emotional magic of Theri, leaving Keerthy’s first Bollywood outing as a learning curve rather than a triumph.

Samantha’s Thoughtful Gesture

Before the film’s release, Keerthy had spoken fondly about Samantha’s support. She also appreciated Samantha’s belief in her, calling the gesture “a big confidence boost.”

During a chat with Gallatta India, Keerthy revealed that it was Samantha who recommended her name during the early discussions about the remake. She said, "She probably had me in mind while this was happening; that's what Varun Dhawan also told me."

Further, she stated that she can't be grateful enough for the recommendation by Sam. Keerthy said, "It's so sweet of her to say. 'Keerthy will be able to pull off this character.' Her performance in Theri is one of my favourites in Tamil. Honestly, I was very scared."

While Sam's endorsement meant a great deal for Keerthy as it gave her the confidence to take on the role in a new languageand new industry, the 'Oh Baby!' actress further extended her support for the project in a personal way.

"I remember Samantha posting an Instagram story after seeing the trailer of Baby John, saying, 'I wouldn’t have shared this with anyone else, but you.' It was incredibly thoughtful and meant something much to me. I couldn't have wished for a better debut. This role is one I truly cherish, and I am so happy I got the chance to play in Hindi," recalled Keerthy.

Must Read: Keerthy Suresh: How the Mahanati actress won her father’s blessing and united two worlds through love

Notably, their bond dates back to Mahanati (2018), where Keerthy portrayed the legendary actress Savitri, and Samantha essayed a crucial journalist role. The two developed a mutual admiration that has continued off-screen too.