Actress Divya Bharathi turned emotional at a promotional event for GOAT while recalling the difficult circumstances the team faced during the film’s making. The actress revealed that the project went through a particularly challenging phase, with some people even coming forward to buy the film when it was only halfway through production.
However, the director remained determined to complete the project despite the setbacks. Recalling that difficult period, Divya said she was so emotionally invested in the film that she even pleaded with the director not to give up.
“There was this time when people were ready to buy the movie halfway through. But sir didn’t give up. I even cried and told him, ‘Sir, don’t give up on the movie. You have so much passion for this project and you have to finish it,’” she recalled.
As she narrated the incident, Divya struggled to hold back her tears and eventually broke down. She also apologised to the audience, admitting that she had not intended to get emotional during the event.
“Sorry, very sorry. I actually didn’t want to cry at all today. I was under so much pressure and kept telling myself that I should not cry. But eventually it happened,” she added.
Divya’s emotional moment brings back memories of several other actresses who have broken down at film-related events, revealing the personal struggles and emotional journeys behind their projects.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu was visibly emotional at the trailer launch of Shaakuntalam in Hyderabad in January 2023. While director Gunasekhar was speaking about the film, Samantha struggled to hold back her tears. She later spoke about the difficulties she had faced in life and said that her love for cinema remained unchanged despite the struggles.
Deepika Padukone also broke down at the trailer launch of Chhapaak in December 2019. The actress became overwhelmed while speaking about the film, which was based on the life of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal. Deepika, who played the lead character, said the story had moved her deeply and that the team had made the film with immense love and responsibility.
Another notable instance was actress-producer Aishwarya Lekshmi breaking down at a press meet for Gargi in July 2022. She became emotional while recalling the three-year journey of the film.
More recently, Payal Rajput broke down during a press conference for First Time 01.01.01 in April 2026 while recalling the loss of her father. She later explained that she had been overwhelmed by a wave of emotions.
These incidents underline how promotional events, which are usually associated with glamour, celebrations and entertainment, can sometimes bring out the vulnerable side of artistes. Film-related uncertainties, financial pressures, personal sacrifices and the emotional investment involved in a project can take a considerable toll on actors.
While producers and directors often face the visible challenges of filmmaking, the emotional burden is equally felt by the artistes who become closely attached to their projects.
