Karuppu was written as Vijay’s last film before Suriya took over: RJ Balaji
RJ Balaji said that Karuppu was originally developed for Vijay before he entered politics. The film later went to Suriya, whose inputs shaped the final script.
Filmmaker RJ Balaji has said this Karuppu It was originally written for Vijay as the final screen appearance of actor-turned-politician Vijay before entering politics. The film eventually went to Suriya after reading the final version of the script.
in an interview with Hollywood Reporter IndiaBalaji said that the direction of the project changed after Vijay decided not to proceed with it. He said that the film later reached Suriya, whose suggestions helped shape the final version of the script, and added that Vijay even congratulated the team after the film’s release.
❮❯
Balaji said, “It was supposed to be his last film, so we had two or three meetings which went on for some time, discussing things like his entry into politics and deciding which film should be made as his last film.”
When Vijay eventually walked out of the project, the filmmaker said he respected the decision. “I felt his reasons were justified. I said, ‘Sir, I completely respect your decision, thank you very much,’ because by that time I had narrated two films to him when he asked me if I had anything. I felt it was a great respect from him for my work and my creativity.”
After this the project went to Surya. KaruppuMeaning Black, is a fantasy action drama in which Karuppasamy, the patron deity in Tamil folk religion, disguises himself as a lawyer to fight judicial corruption and save the life of a young girl.
Balaji said, “The producer came to me and said, ‘You narrated the film to Vijay sir, can you narrate it to Suriya sir?'” He revealed that Suriya liked the film and suggested changes which helped him reach the final script.
Balaji highlighted that he thanked Vijay in the opening credits of the film. He concluded, “It all happened because he asked me the right questions after telling my story, questions that made my film and my script better. That’s why I think I got this film despite him not wanting to do the film.”
The filmmaker had also recalled that Vijay, who now serves as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, had personally reached out to congratulate the entire team after the release of the film.
Karuppu It also stars Trisha Krishnan, Swasika, Indrans, Yogi Babu, Shivada, Natti Subramaniam and Supreeth Reddy in lead roles.
The film was released theatrically on May 15, 2026.