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Producer Corroborates Jude's Allegations Against Pepe: 'If I Don't Say This, It Will Be An Offence'
Producer Corroborates Jude's Allegations Against Pepe: Producer Aravind Kurup and Executive Producer Praveen Kumar have clarified the allegations that actor Antony Varghese (Pepe) walked out of the film after receiving an advance of Rs 10 lakh.
Aravind said that it was Jude who suggested Antony's name for the film. It was initially decided to pay an advance of Rs. 2 lakh. But Antony demanded 10 lakhs. They also stated that the reason why Antony said that he wanted 10 lakhs as an advance was because of his sister's wedding.
The reaction of both of them was through the video shared on the YouTube channel. Jude also shared this video with the caption, 'Only for those who want to know the truth'. Jude also shared a copy of the contract with Antony.
"Antony's name was suggested by Jude. He had a good opinion of Antony. The actor was satisfied with the story. It was initially decided to pay an advance of Rs. 2 lakh. After we met with Antony, the production controller met him. The production controller said that Antony is in need of some money, so an advance of Rs 10 lakh is required. That is why it was decided to pay Rs. 10 lakh."
Advance was paid on June 27, 2019. Antony knew about the story. The printed script was given during the shooting of 'Ajagajantharam'. Antony did not raise any objections to the story then.
The casting video was shot in the first week of December. Although Antony was busy, he cooperated. We decided to start the shoot on January 10. A few portions of Ajagajantharam were left to shoot, so Antony agreed to do the shoot after that. This was on December 10. We did all the rest of the work.
Making January 10 a tentative date, room bookings, food, and travel arrangements were made. The plan was to shoot continuously. When Jude called Antony on December 23, Antony said he was not doing the film and was not interested. On December 29, the director tried to convince Antony.
But Antony informed me that he was not doing the film. When it was 100 percent sure that Antony would not do the film, we asked for the advance of 10 lakhs back. Along with this, five percent of the cost was asked for. We are contacted through the controller. Antony said that the issue was settled cordially, but that's not true.
Antony informed us that he would not pay the expenses, and we agreed. Six months later, on January 27, 2020, Antony returned the 10 lakhs. Many people asked, "If the money was returned, then what is the problem? 10 lakh is not the only cost. The amount we spent on trusting someone for the next 45 days was huge.
Dragging Antony's family into this problem is troubling. The movie stopped there after Antony withdrew from the project. Antony discussed only his own problems. We stopped production and dissolved the company. Family is important to everyone. I have a very precious relationship with Jude. Jude was so emotional because of that. Jude should not suffer because of me. If i don't say this, it will be an offence to Jude,' said Aravind.
The reason why Antony asked for 10 lakh in advance money was because of his sister's wedding. That is the truth. We are also sorry to hear that Antony's family felt bad about the whole issue.
When Pepe Rejected The Film, Jude Burst Into Tears
"A group of young people sat in a flat in bewilderment when Antony rejected the film. People, including Jude, burst into tears. Everyone was informed that the movie would not happen. We faced the blame of the family and the ridicule of people," Praveen said.
Director Jude Anthany Joseph's remarks against actor Antony Varghese were much debated. Jude alleged that Antony backed out 18 days before the shoot after taking money from the producer. Not only that, Jude also accused Antony Varghese of arranging his sister's marriage with advance money from the producer.
Then Antony Varghese came out with a response in the press conference. Antony also shared evidence that refuted Jude's claims. Anthony Varghese said that Jude's comments were an insult to his family. Later, Jude apologised to Antony Pepe and his family.
