OMG! THIS Tamil actor who worked with actors like Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Om Puri, quit films to become a mechanic and drive taxis in New Zealand: “contemplated taking my own life”

MUMBAI:  Showbiz can sometimes be a lonely place. Beneath all the glitz and glamor many find a pointlessness and an urge to do more. There are many who have made it to the top and are enjoying the fruits of their success and there are many who have not continued, given up and simply quit. An example of the latter is a Tamil actor who has been part of many successful films and yet quit to move to New Zealand.

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We are talking about Tamil actor Abbas who has been absent from the film industry for nearly 8 years now. The actor who was once a heartthrob of the industry slowly declined from being a lead hero to taking up supporting roles. He eventually gave up acting and moved to New Zealand with his family. The actor, who is a private person and stayed away from social media, told a news portal, “Nevertheless, I made an exception during the Covid period. While residing in New Zealand, I utilised Zoom calls to connect with fans. My intention was to assist those in need, particularly those struggling with thoughts of suicide.

Giving an insight into his decision on quitting films, Abbas said, “Following my initial achievements, some of my movies faced failure, leaving me financially destitute and unable to afford even basic necessities like rent or cigarettes. Initially, my pride prevented me from seeking alternative employment.”

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He continued, “However, I soon approached producer RB Choudary, requesting work. He offered me the opportunity to be part of the film Pooveli. However, I eventually left films because I got bored. I wasn’t enjoying my work. I distinctly recall advising my friends, who came to watch my Bollywood debut film Ansh: The Deadly Part not to waste their time as I considered it to be bakavas.”

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On facing bankruptcy, Abbas said, “In order to provide for my family, I worked as a bike mechanic and drove taxis in New Zealand.”

On returning to the spotlight Abbas said, “I am generally a private person and rarely grant interviews. While I was living abroad, I did give a few interviews to certain media outlets, but unfortunately, my words were often misrepresented. I frequently receive calls from fans enquiring about my potential comeback or expressing concerns about my well-being. Some have even mentioned hearing rumours of my visit to a mental hospital or my passing. Now that I have returned to India, it’s best to address these matters and clear up any misunderstandings”

Abbas has been part of blockbuster films like Padayappa (1999), Kandukondain Kandukondain (2000) starring Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Hey Ram (2000) starring Kamal Haasan, Aanandham (2001), and Minnale (2001).

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Credit-Indianexpress