Why Simi Garewal Refused to Recreate Interview for Ramya’s ‘Queen’

Simi Garewal’s interview with Jayalalithaa remains one of the most iconic ever.

Simi Garewal with Jayalalithaa. 

(Photo Courtesy: Pinterest)

Ramya Krishnan-starrer Queen traces the journey of Shakthi Sheshadri, an actor who later goes on to dominate the world of politics. The trailer bears striking resemblance to the story of J Jayalalithaa, the former chief minister of Tamil Nadu. Now, according to a report by mid-day, the directors of the series Gautham Vasudev Menon and Prasath Murugesan have recreated one of the most candid interviews of Jayalalithaa with Simi Garewal for her show Rendezvous with Simi Garewal. They had even approached Simi to reprise her role as the host for the web series, but she turned down the offer.

The popular host told the publication that she felt it was morally wrong to recreate the interview.

“The makers did approach me for the part, but I felt it was wrong to reprise a chat show with a person who has passed away. It would look forced and would also lower my standards. However, my decision has nothing to do with the quality of the show,” Simi Garewal added.

Gautham Vasudev Menon also acknowledged that Simi was the first choice for the role. “We wanted the interviewer to bring out the most candid aspects of Shakthi’s life and Simi Garewal would have been the best person to do so. But when it didn’t work out we cast Lillete Dubey as she makes for a great talk show host,” he said.

Jayalalithaa’s 1999 interview with Simi Garewal was very significant as she opened up on how she would pine for her mother’s affection, being one of the most “criticised” public figures and also her equation with MGR.

(Inputs: mid-day)