Neha Sharma Expresses Concern Over Casting Preferences for Social Media Influencers

Neha Sharma believes that while the internet has opened up new opportunities for artists, casting directors should prioritize talent over social media following.

In a recent interview with Indianexpress, Neha Sharma, an Indian actor with over a decade of experience in the Hindi film industry, she expressed her concerns over the increasing preference for social media influencers over seasoned actors in casting decisions. Neha revealed that a project she had done multiple readings for was given to an 'influencer' with a massive following on social media instead of her. According to her, influencers with millions of followers on Instagram are being cast in film lead roles, leaving actors who have earned fans through their work struggling to land parts.

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Neha also acknowledged that the internet has allowed artists to receive work, but the trend of casting influencers over actors cannot be sustainable in the long run. She believes that people will eventually realize the importance of taking someone who can act. She added that social media following has become the new norm for casting directors, and while it used to hurt her initially, she has now come to terms with it.

Earlier, Jannat Zubair, who has a massive following on social media with over 45 million followers on Instagram, had spoken out against using an actor's social media following as a determining factor in the casting process. She mentioned that while directors or producers can hire a public relations firm to promote their project regarding casting actors, their talent should be the primary consideration.

Despite having a loyal social media presence, Sharma admits that she is doing 'moderately well' on the app compared to the influencers with massive followings. She believes that her fans know her for her work and that being relevant is not something one can control.

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On the work front, Neha Sharma will be seen with Nawazuddin Siddiqui in 'Jogira Sara Ra Ra', releasing on 12th May.