‘I got really frustrated’: Dino Morea opens up on his return to the screen

Bollywood actor and model Dino Morea admitted that his career took a downward turn after 2010, with the quality of film offers beginning to decline.

“After 2010, things changed for me in my film career. I was not getting good film offers. I would listen to scripts from various directors, but they lacked impact and substance. I was seriously frustrated,” he shared.

With acting opportunities dwindling, Dino pivoted towards entrepreneurship. “My brother and I opened cafés, and I started getting more seriously involved in business,” he said.

Clinging to visibility

He also spoke candidly about the challenges of staying relevant in an industry that often follows an “out of sight, out of mind” mindset. Dino admitted feeling insecure during this time, which led him to accept smaller roles and guest appearances in major films just to remain visible. “I consciously chose guest appearances and minor roles in big films to stay in the public eye,” he noted.

From college days to Gladrags win

The 49-year-old actor, who began his career in modelling, recalled being discovered during his college days in Bangalore.

“I was studying in Bangalore when a photographer approached me regarding a shoot for a clothing brand. I asked if I would be paid, and he said Rs 500— which felt like a huge amount at the time.I agreed, did the shoot, and soon after, people started calling me when the ad was published in the newspaper,” he recalled.

His friends later submitted his photographs to the Gladrags Modelling Competition. “I ended up going there and winning it. Those were great days— especially working alongside John Abraham and Bipasha Basu during our modelling careers,” he said.

The highs, the lows, and the need to adapt

Reflecting on the industry’s changing landscape, Dino emphasised the importance of adapting and understanding one’s place in it. “I still want to do impactful roles like the one I had in Raaz,” said Dino, who has also starred in films like Gunaah, Plan, and Holiday.

He recounted a disheartening moment when he was replaced in a film just ten days before the shoot. “I found out through a newspaper article. Even though I had signed a two-film contract, I was advised not to pursue legal action to avoid risking future opportunities,” he said.

On love, loss and emotional resilience

Dino described love as a universal emotion that spans across relationships—with family, partners, and even pets. While confirming he is currently in a romantic relationship, he shared a more personal take on marriage.

“I see marriage as a social construct,” he said. He added that he is open to the idea, “but it should come from a place of genuine connection, not societal pressure.”

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Reflecting on his past relationship with Bipasha Basu, Dino revealed that he was the one who initiated their breakup during the filming of Raaz. “It was a tough time, especially seeing Bipasha’s emotional struggles on set. But I believed it was important to handle the situation with mutual respect and understanding.”

Rediscovering purpose through OTT

Having recently appeared in multiple web series, Dino credited OTT platforms for giving his career a much-needed second wind. “OTT has increased my visibility again,” he added. With audiences embracing his darker, more nuanced characters, Dino says he feels creatively energised.

Despite his ups and downs, Dino remains grateful for the connection he shares with audiences across India. “I often visit Delhi for shoots and events. The city is close to my heart,” he said.