Samantha Ruth Prabhu Reveals She Was “Forced” To Speak About Her Myositis Diagnosis

Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu has disclosed details about her autoimmune condition, myositis, stating that she felt compelled to make it public. Samantha shared her struggles with myositis prior to the release of Yashoda in 2022. Speaking with a leading news channel, Samantha expressed that some years during her 14-year career were challenging.

Samantha explained, “I felt pressured to reveal my condition publicly. At that time, I had a female-centric film set to release. I was undergoing severe health issues then. It was a difficult decision, and I wasn’t prepared. There were rumors and misinformation circulating. The producers required me to promote the film, or else it would suffer. So, I consented to one interview. Obviously, I didn’t look the same. I was heavily medicated to manage my condition. It was a forced decision. Given a choice, I wouldn’t have made it public.”

She added, “I faced criticism from the public, being labeled the ‘sympathy queen.’ Throughout my journey as an actor and individual, I’ve undergone significant growth. Initially, I would anxiously search online for negative articles and comments about me. The constant accusations led me to doubt myself. However, they compelled me to become someone I can be proud of. When individuals experience pain, they seek an outlet to express it, and social media serves as that platform, I believe.”

Samantha also admitted struggling with impostor syndrome, fearing that her success would vanish one day. Despite achieving significant milestones in her career, she found it difficult to enjoy them due to her syndrome. Samantha confessed to attributing her successes to others rather than herself.

Samantha’s most recent appearance was in Kushi alongside Vijay Deverakonda. Directed and written by Shiva Nirvana and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, Kushi hit theatres on September 1, 2023, in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. The actress is all set to star in the Indian adaptation of the action series Citadel opposite Varun Dhawan, created by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK.