Kumail Nanjiani, known for his roles in “The Big Sick” and the Marvel film “Eternals,” recently shared his experience of going through a tough time after the release of the highly anticipated superhero movie. In a candid conversation on the Inside of You with Michael Rosenbaum podcast, Nanjiani revealed that the negative reviews the film received took a toll on his mental health, leading him to seek counseling.
Despite the challenging aftermath, Nanjiani expressed his enthusiasm for being a part of “Eternals” and how it allowed him to truly enjoy his work. He described having the best time filming the movie, emphasizing that it was an experience that made him realize how work should feel like.
However, the excitement was short-lived when the film hit theaters and received unfavorable reviews. Nanjiani admitted that he had placed too much importance on external validation and the opinions of others, leading to a profound realization regarding his approach to his career. He recognized that evaluating his work solely based on external feedback was not a healthy or sustainable mindset.
Released in 2021, “Eternals” featured a star-studded cast including Angelina Jolie, Salma Hayek, Gemma Chan, Richard Madden, and Kit Harington. The film, directed by Chloé Zhao, garnered a score of only 47% on Rotten Tomatoes. Nanjiani described the challenging circumstances surrounding the release, with Marvel anticipating better reviews. They lifted the embargo early and even sent the cast on a global promotional tour, expecting a positive reception. Unfortunately, the critical response did not align with their expectations.
Reading the negative reviews hit Nanjiani hard, affecting his mental well-being. The actor acknowledged that he had read multiple reviews, leading to a downward spiral in his mental health. He emphasized that the criticism was particularly difficult because he believed the negative reception was unwarranted, speculating that external factors may have influenced the overall perception of the film. Nanjiani expressed his disappointment, not only for himself but also for his wife, Emily, who also faced the repercussions of the harsh reviews.
Recognizing the harmful impact of external validation on his mental health, Nanjiani decided it was time for a change. He took the brave step of seeking counseling, realizing that he needed a different mindset to approach his work in the entertainment industry. Nanjiani’s candid confession serves as a powerful reminder of the pressures actors face and the importance of prioritizing mental well-being in the face of criticism.
Kumail Nanjiani’s experience with negative reviews and their impact on his mental health is a testament to the importance of self-evaluation and inner validation. It serves as a reminder that finding fulfillment in one’s work should not be solely dependent on external recognition. Society often puts immense pressure on individuals to seek external validation, but Nanjiani’s journey encourages us to evaluate our own success based on our personal growth and enjoyment of the process.
Through his openness, Nanjiani displays a remarkable level of resilience. He recognized the need for change and sought professional help to navigate the challenges he faced. His story serves as an inspiration for others who may find themselves in a similar situation, reminding us all of the strength and courage required to confront difficult circumstances and prioritize our mental well-being.
Kumail Nanjiani’s candid conversation about the impact of negative reviews on his mental health sheds light on the pressures faced by actors in the entertainment industry. His journey serves as a reminder of the importance of self-evaluation and highlights the need to prioritize mental well-being in the face of external criticism. Ultimately, Nanjiani’s experience is a tale of resilience and personal growth, inspiring others to reevaluate their relationship with external validation and find joy in the creative process.
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