Tamil Composer turned actor and filmmaker Vijay Antony will be seen next in the much-awaited film, Romeo, opening in cinemas as a grand Ramzan release under debutant filmmaker Vinayak Vaithianathan's direction. Meanwhile, the actor's comments about Jesus Christ at the upcoming film's promotional event has stirred controversy, which led to a strong response from the Tamil Nadu Federation of Christian Churches. The Christian association subsequently issued a statement warning of massive protests in front of his house if the actor did not apologize for his comments.
On Saturday, March 16, Vijay Antony penned an apology in Tamil on his social media clarifying that he was only referring to the historical consumption of grape juice and not alcohol, while expressing his regret for any misconception or pain caused. In his apology note, the Pichaikkaran actor maintained his stance saying that he was not stating anything wrong and informed that he would "never dream of misrepresenting Jesus, who shed his blood and died for the people." Vijay Antony's statements garnered attention during the Romeo promotional event where he was queried about the film's poster featuring him on a bed holding a jar of milk and co-star Mirnalini Ravi preparing a drink.
— vijayantony (@vijayantony) March 16, 2024
Vijay Antony, who was questioned the portrayal of alcohol consumption among women, defended the depiction citing historical practices. He spoke about Jesus Christ's supposed consumption of wine, which led to a big outcry from the Tamil Nadu Federation of Christian Churches. Condemning the actor's comments, the outfit accused the actor of disrespecting Jesus Christ and Christians, and demanded an apology failing which a demonstration would take place outside his residence. Vijay Antony was also asked during the press meet if Romeo was trying to portray women drinking, with the actor saying, "It has been a long-time practice. We used to drink 'sarayam' (now banned in Tamil Nadu). Now, we consume it under different names. Jesus (Christ) too drank wine two thousand years back."
