Veteran actor Suniel Shetty is exploring a new creative direction by entering talks to acquire the adaptation rights of true-crime book Black Scorpion: To Hell and Back, with the intention of turning it into a feature-length web series. The story narrates the life of Shyam Kishore Garikpati, a notorious underworld figure in Mumbai during the 1980s and 1990s, who later becomes a businessman.
Suniel Shetty is in talks to adapt Black Scorpion; Eager to play the role of gangster Shyam Kishore Garikapati: Report
According to a report in Mid-Day, Shetty has been deeply involved with the content of the book in recent times, and his interest goes beyond the acquisition. Reports indicate that he is also considering playing the central role of Garikapati in the adaptation, which would mark a significant on-screen comeback for the actor in the serious crime drama.
The portal quoted a source as saying, “Sunil feels the story has the potential to become an exciting web series. He likes such subjects. What makes the story more interesting is how Garikapati – known as the Black Scorpion in police circles – turned his life around after meeting top cop Kiran Bedi in Tihar jail and eventually became a businessman.”
The news of Shetty’s interest in the project comes amid his continued involvement in various roles and ventures across the industry. He has been active in creative decisions, on- and off-screen, with several projects in various stages of development. This includes acting roles as well as initiatives behind the camera, where he has taken a keen interest in shaping stories that challenge traditional storytelling.
Meanwhile, the report also quoted co-writer Joshua who confirmed the development, saying, “When Sunil Anna read the synopsis, he was fascinated by the arc. He decided to not only unveil the book but also pursue the rights to adapt it into a series.”
However, at the time of reporting, neither Shetty nor his representatives had officially confirmed the acquisition of the rights or a casting decision, and negotiations are understood to be ongoing. Other details, including potential partners, platforms and timelines, are likely to emerge as discussions progress.
