Abhinay Deo: Even Irrfan didn’t know about his illness when he was shooting ‘Blackmail’

‘Blackmail’ is all set to release this Friday and while it has been getting rave reviews, from early shows, director Abhinay Deo is a tad heartbroken for his lead actor Irrfan, who has been battling an illness.

He said, “Nobody knew about his illness, not even him. It’s so unfortunate. My heart goes out to him and his family. They are fighting this battle well. They are incredibly strong and amazing people. I am sure they will win this fight and will be back soon. I met Irrfan before he left for his treatment. I showed him the film and he loved it. What he has managed to do with the writing is spectacular.”

Speaking of roping in Irrfan in the film, he added, “Irrfan was my first choice. I wanted somebody to look like an aam aadmi and who can act like he doesn’t have the balls to tackle his boss, his own wife or her lover. He is a zindagi se haara hua aadmi. The character needed someone who can deliver with the least amount of lines and expressions on what’s going on inside him, and there was no one better than Irrfan who could pull it off.”