Producer Sandra Thomas admits drug problem exists in Malayalam cinema: ‘We don’t know when they’re sober’

Though the film bodies said that they are not banning the actors, it was clear that filmmakers are on their own if they choose to work with the duo. On top of that, the associations didn’t openly admit that the step was due to drug abuse problems. However, all the statements hinted that it was due to the very reason. Ever since the announcement, the drug abuse problem in Malayalam cinema has become a topic of discussion with Sandra Thomas being the latest one to admit its existence.

In an interview with Cinema Express, Sandra was asked about the widespread accusation of drug usage in the film industry, and she said, “It’s true that drug usage is rampant in Malayalam cinema. It’s high time we controlled it because there are plenty of issues associated with it. People who take these drugs don’t sleep at night, so they’re always late for the shoot. We also don’t know when they’re sober. They’ll nod at all our instructions, but they won’t be listening. They keep forgetting the time and dates. At the end of the day, it’s the producer who suffers.”

However, Sandra Thomas was among very few members of the industry who came out in support of Shane Nigam. “I see Shane as a youngster with a bright future ahead. But all these controversies can affect his mental health. I’m genuinely concerned about him; probably because of my motherly instincts. I’m still not sure what transpired on the sets of RDX,” she said.

When asked if she would do a film with the two actors, the producer said, “I am not sure about that…Cinema is ultimately a business. I can’t put myself in trouble for the sake of helping others.”