Kriti Sanon Addresses Deepika Padukone Comparisons for ‘Cocktail 2’ Character Ally, Says ‘Glad That They’re Different’
Kriti Sanon addresses comparisons to Deepika Padukone's Veronica for her role as Ally in 'Cocktail 2'. The actress admits she expected the parallels but clarifies her character's distinctiveness. Released on June 19, 2026, Homi Adajania's 'Cocktail 2', also starring Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna, has already grossed over INR 100 crore mark.
Just days after the highly anticipated theatrical release of Cocktail 2, lead actress Kriti Sanon has found herself at the centre of comparisons with Deepika Padukone’s unforgettable character Veronica from the 2012 blockbuster Cocktail. Sanon, who portrays the free-spirited Ally in the new film, has candidly spoken about the discussions, stating that while she expected them, her character is fundamentally different from Veronica. ‘Cocktail 2’ Emerges a Hit As Worldwide Collection Crosses INR 106.61 Crore.
Kriti Sanon Admits She Expected Comparisons with Deepika Padukone's Iconic Character in Cocktail
Speaking in a recent interview with Filmfare, Kriti Sanon elaborated on the widespread parallels drawn between Ally and Veronica. “Do I expect it? Yes, I do. It’s kind of obvious, as I’m doing a film which is a franchise to the film that she’s done before,” Sanon stated. She acknowledged a shared energetic core, noting, “The characters, somewhere, have a similar energy of being slightly disruptive, unhinged and free-spirited.”
However, Sanon was quick to differentiate her role, emphasising the unique narrative of Cocktail 2. “But Ally and Veronica are so different, and I’m glad that they’re different. Why would I play the same character that Deepika has already done? That doesn’t make sense,” she asserted. Sanon highlighted that the sequel offers a fresh perspective, adding, “That’s what’s fresh about Cocktail 2. It’s a completely different story with completely different conflicts and different characters. Ally has her own personality, even though it may seem like it coincides with something. She’s a completely different person from Veronica.”
‘Cocktail 2’ Box Office Success Amidst Buzz
Cocktail 2, a spiritual sequel to Homi Adajania’s 2012 romantic drama, premiered in cinemas on June 19, 2026. Directed once again by Homi Adajania, the film stars Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna in lead roles. Produced by Dinesh Vijan, Luv Ranjan, and Ankur Garg under Maddock Films and Luv Films, it has garnered significant attention.
Despite receiving mixed reviews, the film has performed strongly at the box office, smashing past the INR 100 crore mark worldwide within just six days of its release. As of Day 6, June 25, 2026, Cocktail 2 has amassed a global gross collection of INR 102.76 crore, with its India net collection reaching an estimated INR 66 crore. ‘Cocktail 2’ Twitter Review: Kriti Sanon Is the Only Saving Grace in Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna’s Watchable Rom-Com, Say Moviegoers.
The original Cocktail, released on July 13, 2012, was a commercial success, grossing INR 126 crore worldwide. It starred Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Diana Penty, with Padukone's portrayal of Veronica being particularly lauded. The enduring impact of Deepika's performance naturally sets a high bar for any character embodying a similar free-spirited vibe in the sequel, making Sanon's measured response all the more significant as she navigates the film’s reception and critical commentary.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 25, 2026 07:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
