Suniel prefers producing films to acting

Suniel Shetty would rather be a producer than an actor. And he proved it by saying no to a plum role in Apoorva Lakhia's film on international terrorism.

"I can't be both. I'll either be a producer or an actor. I'll never act in a film I produce. Apoorva came to sign me as an actor for a fantastic role in 'Mission Istanbul'. But when I heard the script, I offered to produce the film for him," Suniel told IANS.

Suniel, who made his debut in Bollywood with "Balwaan" in 1992 and gave hits like "Hera Pheri", "Dhadkan" and "Border", ventured into production with "Khel" in 2003.

Isn't it very unusual for an actor to relinquish a ravishing role and offer to shell out millions instead on producing the picture?

Suniel laughs, "My company Popcorn Entertainment has to grow and for that I need to sign good writers and directors. I'll produce Apoorva's 'Mission Istanbul'. Earlier, I had said no to a role in Priyadarshan's 'Bhagam Bhag'. I wanted Govinda to do the role and offered to produce the film instead."

As for his opportunities as an actor, Suniel feels "Shootout At Lokhandwala" is a new beginning for him.

"I'm so happy that my role has shaped up well. People like me in toughie's act and my banter with Arbaaz Khan. I remember Apoorva had called me in the US to step into the role at the eleventh hour when Arjun Rampal had decided to opt out.

"I immediately agreed because I had implicit faith in both Sanjay Gupta and Apoorva. I just told him, 'I've been let down many times. Please don't let me down again.' He promised he wouldn't. And he kept his word. After working with him in 'Shootout...' I know he can deliver the goods."