Will delay in releasing Kennedy impact its relevance? Sunny Leone gives a clear answer

After bypassing a traditional theatrical release, Anurag Kashyap’s Kennedy is finally heading to audiences via OTT. The neo-noir thriller, led by Rahul Bhat and Sunny Leone, will now make its digital debut on ZEE5 (via OTTplay Premium) on February 20, 2026. Ahead of the premiere, Sunny opened up about whether the delay in releasing will impact the relevance or not. 

Will the delay change the way Kennedy will be received?

Speaking to Variety India, Sunny Leone was asked whether she thinks Kennedy as a film is more relevant now, or if the delay has affected it. She said, "Because it was shot during COVID, I think that hangover is still lingering in people’s hearts. It’s still fresh what everyone went through."

Sunny also added that this is a fictional story, but it’s definitely going to hit people in different ways depending on how they view things. "I don’t think the themes in the film are any less relatable today," she added. 

Also Read: Kennedy OTT release date in India: When and where to watch Anurag Kashyap's neo-noir crime thriller

Sunny Leone on portraying Charlie in Kennedy

In Anurag Kashyap's Kennedy, Sunny Leone plays Charlie, a complex, enigmatic, and layered character who is both fragile and strong. She becomes entangled with the protagonist, Uday Shetty (Rahul Bhat), a former police officer turned contract killer.

Describing her character, Sunny said that they did a lot of workshops. Anurag Kashyap told her different stories and gave her references. They also did dialogue coaching and several exercises. 

"After he explained the character, I found small relatable things in my own journey. Some things were relatable, some obviously were not. After all that preparation, it wasn’t that difficult on set. Through his coaching and the way Anurag nurtures you emotionally making you feel heard and safe you just have to let go and trust him," she said. 

Sunny Leone said that she had tried her very best to be a good listener and absorb as much information as possible because she did not want to take for granted the opportunity to work with him or with other amazing directors who had created incredible cinema.

What's the plot of Kennedy?

Anurag Kashyap's Kennedy (2023) is a neo-noir crime thriller that follows an insomniac ex-cop (Rahul Bhat), presumed dead, who works as a hitman for a corrupt system while seeking redemption. The film, set in post-lockdown Mumbai, features Sunny Leone as Charlie and explores a violent, dark underworld.

Kennedy FAQs

Q: Where can I watch the Kennedy movie in India?

A: Anurag Kashyap's Kennedy will be released on ZEE5 (OTTplay Premium) on February 20, 2026.

Q: Who directed Kennedy?

A: Kennedy (2023) is directed by Anurag Kashyap and is widely regarded as a compelling yet polarising neo-noir crime thriller. 

Q: Who are the actors in Kennedy?

A: Kennedy stars Sunny Leone, Rahul Bhat, Mohit Takalkar, and others.