Sunil Grover Faced Depression Before Kapil Show Success

Comedian and actor Sunil Grover, widely loved for his performances on The Kapil Sharma Show, faced severe personal and professional struggles before his big break in 2013. In a recent interview, his co-star Upasana Singh, who played “Bua” on the show, opened up about the difficult period in Grover’s life when he battled depression and came close to being removed from the show.

Sunil Grover’s Battle With Depression

Upasana Singh revealed that when Kapil Sharma’s show began, Sunil was going through a tough phase. “When Kapil's show started, he was not well. I asked him what happened, and he shared that he was hospitalised because of depression. He didn’t have much work either,” she said.

She added that Grover’s transformation since then has been remarkable. “When he came over to my house with Kapil, I didn’t even recognise him because he wasn’t doing much then. But he did so well later, and we’re good friends now,” she said, appreciating his resilience and talent.

Executives Wanted to Fire Sunil Grover

Upasana also recalled a time when creative executives considered removing Sunil from the show. “When he initially came in, he spoke at a slower pace. So the creative team wanted to fire him because they thought he couldn’t match up with the rest of the cast,” she revealed.

She added that she defended him, insisting that Grover was a talented actor who only needed time to adjust. “I told them he’s very good; you should keep him on. And I’m glad they did, because look where he is today,” Upasana shared.

Sunil Grover and Kapil Sharma’s Fallout

Sunil Grover and Kapil Sharma worked together on several hit comedy shows like Comedy Nights With Kapil and The Kapil Sharma Show. However, in 2017, their professional relationship soured after an alleged mid-air altercation on a flight from Melbourne, which reportedly led to Grover’s exit from the show.

Later, Kapil Sharma admitted there was a problem but claimed that reports were exaggerated. “It was said that I threw a shoe at Sunil or threw tantrums. Those stories were fabricated,” he said.

Public Apologies and Reconciliation

Following the incident, Kapil publicly apologised on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“Paji Sunil Grover, sorry if I hurt you unintentionally. You know very well how much I love you. I am also upset. Love and regards always :)”

Sunil Grover responded with a heartfelt yet firm note:

“Bha ji! Yes, you hurt me deeply. Working with you has been a learning experience. Just one advice — start respecting human beings also, not just animals... have some gratitude towards their existence.”

Years after their fallout, the two comedians reunited for The Great Indian Kapil Show on Netflix, marking a major moment for their fans who had long hoped to see the duo share the stage again.

Despite the challenges and setbacks, Sunil Grover’s journey stands as an inspiring example of perseverance and talent overcoming adversity in the entertainment industry.