In an interview with Variety India, Saif Ali Khan revealed that actors including Ranbir Kapoor and Imran Khan had turned down the film Cocktail before he eventually came on board.
According to Saif, the makers were struggling to find an actor to play the male lead because Deepika Padukone's character Veronica was the most attractive part in the script.
He said, 'They had Deepika and Diana, but they couldn’t get a hero to play the part, probably because Veronica’s (played by Deepika) part is so delicious.'
Saif added, 'I think they should all be very thankful I did. That’s my story. Yeah, because I had great fun.'
Cocktail was a critical and commercial success, with Deepika's performance as Veronica receiving widespread acclaim and often being regarded as a turning point in her career.
The film's soundtrack also became hugely popular, featuring songs such as Tum Hi Ho Bandhu, Daaru Desi and Second Hand Jawaani.
