In company of Hollywood’s elite

With Hollywood embracing inclusivity, Don’t Look Up actor Himesh Patel on working with Leo DiCaprio and Jen Lawrence

EastEnders star Himesh Patel acknowledges that not everyone can narrate the kind of tales to their grandkids that he can. “I can tell them I met Meryl Streep,” he laughs. Born to Indian parents, Patel features in Adam McKay’s Don’t Look Up that has an all-star cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Timothee Chalamet, and Ariana Grande. Streep also features in the Netflix offering, but Patel did not have the opportunity to share screen space with her. “I worked with Leo and Jennifer. Leo is hard-working and committed. He had ideas of how we could improve the scene, and he was, of course, correct. He leads by example,” says Patel.

A still from the film

The satirical science fiction drama follows two astronomers who attempt to warn mankind about an approaching comet that will destroy the planet. “Comedy is about taking familiar concepts and twisting them. Adam has a precise vision, but is collaborative, and wants everyone to have their [say].” Apart from the success that Priyanka Chopra has achieved on international turf, Anupam Kher, Kunal Nayyar and the like have opened doors for other brown actors to establish themselves in Hollywood. Patel agrees that he is “a beneficiary of this period where [filmmakers] are inclusive and broad minded”.

However, the British actor of Indian origin believes there are still doors to be opened. “I’m looking forward to breaking down some barriers. There is a deep history between India and Britain, and there are a lot of stories that need to be told. I hope they will see the light of day.”

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