Manish Goel opens up on his 'casting couch' experience: 'One man said 'Hi dark chocolate'

Veteran actor Manish Goel, who was last seen in Star Plus’ popular show Anupamaa, recently opened up about his experiences in the entertainment industry, particularly addressing the topic of the casting couch — a subject often shrouded in silence and stigma. In an exclusive chat with India Forums, Manish offered an honest and grounded perspective, sharing that while he has never faced the casting couch directly, he has received suggestive advances over the years.

Reflecting on his 25 plus year long journey in the industry, Manish said, "I can't speak for anyone else, but generalizing also, if I have to say — in these 25 to 27 years, I don't remember ever needing to have dinner with someone on the road."

The actor candidly revealed that such propositions have come his way, but he has always maintained boundaries. "Yes, approaches come, I have said that. One person said, ‘Manish, hi dark chocolate, how are you?’ All of them come, a lot of them come. It came just now, it came three days ago — ‘Hi dark chocolate, hi cream chocolate, hi this...’ So you get these things."

Yes, approaches come, I have said that. One person said, ‘Manish, hi dark chocolate, how are you?

- Manish Goel

Manish emphasized that in such situations, the choice lies entirely with the individual.
"It is up to you whether you want to reply, revert, meet, or take it further. I don’t seed all this. I believe that work is work."

The actor, who has been a part of the television world since the late 1990s and has featured in shows like Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii and Kasautii Zindagii Kay, attributed his grounded approach to both his personal and professional values.

"Touch wood, I am a married man, I have a kid — so touch wood. God is kind," he added with gratitude.

Manish’s remarks shed light on the subtler forms of industry pressure and the importance of drawing personal lines. While the casting couch remains a reality for many, his account underscores that integrity and self respect can help navigate difficult spaces in showbiz.