On the set of Citadel: Honey Bunny, actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu showed remarkable resilience as she pushed through her Myositis condition to deliver high-octane action sequences. Co-star Varun Dhawan recently shared insights into Samantha’s ordeal, revealing her strength in the face of her health struggles.
Diagnosed with Myositis—a rare autoimmune disorder causing muscle inflammation—Samantha was uncertain about returning to acting. She initially suggested the Citadel producers recast her role due to her condition. However, with encouragement from her team, Samantha persisted. Reflecting on this challenging period, Samantha told Hollywood Reporter India, “They did the impossible. They made me trust them and believe I could do it. I don’t think I’ve ever relied on anyone so fully.”
In an interview, Varun described two unsettling moments on set that underscored Samantha’s resolve. The first incident involved her needing an oxygen tank between takes. Varun recounted, “She was literally taking oxygen on set, and that’s commitment. She could have taken the day off, but she pushed through.”
The second incident, however, was particularly intense. While filming in Serbia, Samantha collapsed after a strenuous running scene. Varun, visibly moved, recalled rushing to catch her and demanding a pack-up, concerned for her well-being. “That’s the only day I saw her break down,” he said. “Looking at her determination, I realized how small my own problems were. She inspired all of us.”
Citadel: Honey Bunny is currently streaming on Prime Video, with audiences praising Samantha’s performance as a spy with a tumultuous past. Her determination has not only elevated her role but also served as an inspiration to her team, as Varun added, “She taught us so much about life on that set.”
Samantha’s battle with Myositis began in 2022, and her journey through Citadel showcases her enduring strength and passion for her craft.