Actor Vijay Deverakonda has highlighted the growing sense of mutual support within the Telugu film industry and shared insights into his evolving approach to selecting scripts. Speaking ahead of the release of his upcoming film Kingdom, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri and set for release on July 31, Deverakonda also reflected on his association with actor Jr NTR and the ethics behind his recent choices.
“Jr NTR immediately agreed to lend his voice for the Kingdom teaser when I asked him. These gestures strengthen friendships and show that people in the industry are genuinely trying to support one another,” he said.
Discussing his collaboration with director Gowtam Tinnanuri, Deverakonda revealed that he was offered two scripts. He chose Kingdom after learning that the other story closely resembled a recently released film. “Although we would have completed our project first, it didn’t feel ethically right to proceed with that script. I know the producers of that film and felt it was better to step back,” he noted.
The actor also spoke about how his approach to scripts has matured over time. “There was a time I couldn’t say no, even to scripts I didn’t believe in. That’s not the case with actors from film families—they can reject a script outright, and their fathers often suggest bringing in writers to rework it,” he said.
“Today, I’m able to communicate honestly with directors and producers. Whether it’s about budget, the director’s career, or the trust fans place in me, I feel a sense of responsibility. I move forward with a project only when I’m completely convinced by the script. That’s what experience has taught me,” Deverakonda added.