Shahid Kapoor has opened up about undergoing what he calls his “toughest” physical transformation for his much-anticipated film O’ Romeo, which released in theatres on February 13, 2026. As the movie garners praise from audiences and critics alike, the actor revealed the intense effort that went into building his character, Ustraa, while balancing the film’s mix of drama and humour.
The film marks Shahid’s fourth collaboration with filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj, and the actor said that emotionally connecting with the story was crucial for him. In a conversation with Hindustan Times, he said, “If you won’t be honest, it is unfair for everybody else. I very much connected with this film,” emphasising that O’ Romeo aims to strike a balance between cinema for intellectual viewers and mass audiences.
Shahid described his character, Ustraa, as “dark yet soft and can also be very funny. He’s a complete laundiya baaz, yet falls in love to a degree that he loses himself.” Unlike his intense roles in Haider or Kabir Singh, Ustraa blends humour, romance and gangster-like bravado. Despite his tough image, the character is shown to fear his grandmother, played by Farida Jalal.
The actor admitted that the most challenging aspect of the film was the physical preparation. “The toughest real estate in this film was actually my body! It was covered in tattoos; it would take two and a half hours to put them on before I got on set.” He added that shooting night action sequences proved especially demanding, particularly after undergoing major hip surgery.
For Shahid, a filmmaker’s approval matters the most. “If they are not satisfied, there’s no point to the entire experience. I should be able to add more value than they expected.” He also said feedback from his family – mother Neelima Azeem, father Pankaj Kapur, brother Ishaan Khatter and wife Mira Kapoor – continues to be invaluable.
Inspired by true events, O’ Romeo features a strong ensemble cast including Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary, Nana Patekar, Farida Jalal, Disha Patani and Tamannaah Bhatia, with Vikrant Massey making a special appearance. The story explores unrequited love through Vishal Bhardwaj’s signature storytelling, layered characters and music.
Presented by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, the film is produced under the banner of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment. With strong buzz and a notable cast, O’ Romeo is expected to attract steady footfall in cinemas.
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