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Image Courtesy: Deepika Padukone/ Instagram
Rumours had been swirling on social media that Deepika Padukone was set to join 'The White Lotus,' the hit show created by Mike White. Many believed the role would mark her return to Hollywood after her debut in 'xXx: Return of Xander Cage' alongside Vin Diesel.
However, new reports suggest that she is no longer being considered for the Emmy-winning series. According to Variety India, Deepika stepped away from the opportunity because she was not willing to go through the audition process.
An industry insider revealed that auditions are a mandatory part of casting for 'The White Lotus.' The makers reportedly wanted all actors to audition before being finalised, but Deepika was not comfortable with that requirement. As a result, the collaboration did not move forward.
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Image Courtesy: Deepika Padukone/ Instagram
Deepika Padukone Was Approached Earlier
This was not the first time the show's team had shown interest in her. During the third season, they were also said to be keen on casting her, but the timing did not work out due to her pregnancy. With season four now in development, discussions resurfaced, yet once again, the project did not materialise.
Over the past year, Deepika Padukone has stepped away from several high-profile films. She exited 'Spirit,' directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, and the sequel to 'Kalki 2898 AD,' helmed by Nag Ashwin. Reports claimed that differences over work conditions, pay, and profit-sharing led to her departure from 'Spirit.' Similarly, despite receiving praise for her performance in the first 'Kalki' film, she is reportedly not part of its sequel due to unmet expectations during negotiations.
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Image Courtesy: Deepika Padukone/ Instagram
How Deepika Padukone Chooses Her Projects?
Amid these developments, Deepika recently shared insights into how she chooses her projects in an interview with Harper's Bazaar. She explained that she now prioritises authenticity over money or scale. She said that if something does not feel true to her, she walks away, even if the offer is financially attractive. At the same time, she is willing to take on smaller projects if she believes in the story or the people behind it. She admitted that while she may question some decisions in the future, the choices she is making right now feel honest to her.
Looking ahead, Deepika Padukone will next appear in 'King,' directed by Siddharth Anand, alongside Shah Rukh Khan, Abhishek Bachchan and Suhana Khan. The film is scheduled for release in December 2026. She is also working on an upcoming project directed by Atlee and starring Allu Arjun.
