When Fahadh Faasil, actor announced that his post‑film life will involve steering a cab through the streets of Barcelona, the entertainment world hiccuped for a beat.
The revelation came during a candid chat with The Hollywood Reporter India on July 25, 2025, just as his new comedy‑thriller MaareesanIndia hit theatres.
Background: A career that’s anything but ordinary
Since his debut in the Malayalam drama Kaiyethum Doorath in 2002, Fahadh has layered his résumé across Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu cinema, racking up more than 30 lead roles. Recent hits like Aavesham (2023), Pushpa 2 (2024) and the bilingual action epic Vikram (2022) keep his name on marquee boards. Yet, a 2020 interview with Times Entertainment hinted that the actor had already sketched out a “plan B” that involved a steering wheel.
In that early conversation, he joked about driving a taxi after his twenties, but added a note of seriousness that fans have debated for years. Fast‑forward to May 2025: sources say the star spent a week touring the Gothic Quarter, sipping café con leche on La Rambla, and mapping out potential Uber hotspots.
Interview details: The Hollywood Reporter India reveals the plan
During the promotional sit‑down, the actor, flanked by Tamil comedian‑actor Vadivelu, was asked directly about his future. He replied, “When people feel they’ve seen enough of me on screen, I’ll move to Barcelona and become an Uber driver. I’m not joking.” He went on to explain that the simple act of “witnessing someone’s destination” feels profoundly beautiful to him.
When pressed about timing, he shrugged, “It’ll only happen after people are done with me, you know? Jokes apart, I love driving. Every chance I get, I drive. It’s my time for me.” The interview, timed at exactly 5:25 PM IST, was streamed live and quickly trended on Indian social platforms.
Why Barcelona? – the city that stole his heart
Barcelona isn’t a random pick. The actor described it as “the favorite place in the world,” citing its blend of modernist architecture, bustling markets and a public‑transport culture that encourages car‑sharing. He added, “Driving through Spain, meeting different people, feels like a peaceful, happy life after the chaos of film sets.”
According to a cultural‑tourism report released by the Barcelona City Council in March 2025, the city welcomed 12 million tourists that year, many of whom relied on rideshare services. Fahadh’s proposed shift, therefore, would place him in the middle of a thriving gig‑economy ecosystem.
Reactions: Co‑stars, industry veterans and fans
Suddenly, the buzz wasn’t limited to cinema circles. Director Sudheesh Shankar, who helmed Maareesan, praised the actor’s humility: “Fahadh’s love for the road has always been part of his personality. If he wants to drive people to their dreams, who are we to stop him?”
Legendary actor Kamal Haasan, who publicly lauded the film, also chimed in on Twitter, writing, “A man who can make us laugh on screen and then choose to drive us home – that’s the sort of humanity we need more of in cinema.”
His wife, actress Nazriya Nazim, was spotted smiling during the interview. Sources say she “agrees wholeheartedly” with the plan, noting that the couple has been discussing life after stardom for years.
Fans, meanwhile, posted mixed reactions. Some applauded the choice as a refreshing break from celebrity excess, while others feared it signaled a premature exit. A poll conducted by the entertainment portal Film Companion on July 28, 2025, showed 57 % of respondents found the idea “inspiring,” 28 % were “confused,” and 15 % “disappointed.”
What the future might look like – from red carpet to rideshare
If the plan materialises, Fahadh would need to acquire a Spanish driving licence, meet Uber’s background‑check criteria, and possibly learn Catalan basics. Industry analyst Priya Menon of South Asian Media Insights predicts that a celebrity‑driver could boost Uber’s brand visibility in Europe by up to 3 % within the first six months.
But the actor also hinted at a dual identity: “I won’t stop acting entirely. I might do occasional cameo‑roles, maybe an indie project shot in Barcelona. The car would be my studio.” Such a hybrid model mirrors the trend of “gig‑artist” professionals who blend creative work with flexible side jobs.
Meanwhile, the release of Maareesan has taken a respectable opening, earning ₹12 crore (≈ $1.5 million) domestically in its first weekend, according to Box Office India. Critics praise its blend of humor and emotional depth, echoing Kamal Haasan’s earlier comment.
- Actor: Fahadh Faasil, age 42
- Retirement plan: Uber driver in Barcelona
- Film tied to announcement: Maareesan (released 25 July 2025)
- Spouse supporting the move: Nazriya Nazim
- Director of the film: Sudheesh Shankar
Whether he ultimately hangs up his script for a steering wheel, the conversation has already shifted perceptions about life after fame. It reminds us that even the brightest stars sometimes seek the simple joy of a steady road.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will Fahadh Faasil’s Uber driving affect his acting career?
He says the two can coexist. Fahadh plans to take occasional cameo roles, especially projects filmed in Barcelona, while maintaining a regular rideshare schedule. This hybrid approach could set a precedent for other artists seeking flexible post‑stardom lives.
Why choose Barcelona over other cities?
The actor called Barcelona his “favorite place in the world.” Its vibrant culture, high demand for rideshare services (12 million tourists in 2025), and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle align with his desire to “witness someone’s destination” each day.
What has been the industry’s reaction to the retirement plan?
Peers like director Sudheesh Shankar and veteran Kamal Haasan praised the humility behind the move. While some fans are confused, a majority view it as an inspiring, human‑centric choice that challenges conventional celebrity trajectories.
When did Fahadh first mention this plan?
He first spoke about the idea in a 2020 interview with Times Entertainment, describing it as a “long‑standing dream.” He reiterated the intent after a personal trip to Barcelona in May 2025.
Will his wife, Nazriya Nazim, also move to Spain?
Nazriya has publicly expressed support but hasn’t confirmed relocation plans. Sources close to the couple say they will decide together after the film’s promotional cycle ends.
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