Has Shahid Kapoor taken a pay cut for ‘Jersey’ for it to not release on OTT platform?

The Shahid Kapoor-starrer 'Jersey' was supposed to hit theatres on December 31, but it was postponed due to an increase in Covid-19 cases. Soon after, rumours circulated that the makers of 'Jersey' were planning an OTT release for the film, while another report claimed that Shahid had taken a pay cut from his fee of Rs 31 crore in order for the film not to be released digitally. 

However, a source close to the project told ETimes, "There is no truth to this rumour about Shahid Kapoor taking a pay cut. Anyone can say anything, but the only fact is that the film has been postponed for now.” When asked about the OTT rumour, the source added, “Shahid is keen that this film releases in theatres, hence there is less chance of ‘Jersey’ skipping a theatrical release.”

In a recent interview with ETimes, Shahid Kapoor was asked if he drew inspiration for his role in 'Jersey' from any specific cricketer, and he responded, "I have seen a lot of cricket as I am a huge cricket buff. You cannot be as good as a professional cricketer playing at international level, you can't get there. The idea was just to get the personality of a cricketer in my character. The story of 'Jersey' is being told with a lot of emotion. That's why the people would like to see this film, else they would like to see a match. The film is an in-depth drama which gives you an understanding of what can go on inside a sportsperson.”

Jersey, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, is a remake of a Telugu sports drama.