Big B to play superhero in animated TV series

Astra Force, a funny and fast-paced action-adventure series, filled with laughs and thrills, tells the story of a mythical hero from a distant world, who was stranded on Earth millions of years ago after a space battle.

Bachchan, 72, revealed this is the first animated character that has been offered to him.

"I liked the idea. I gave nod to this because I was never associated with something like this. It is a great way to connect with children.

"Astra is a superhero who has physical superpowers. The kids will learn some lessons from this. But it is not going to be preachy," Bachchan told PTI in an exclusive interview here.

When eight-year old twin brother and sister accidentally awaken the mythical superhero from his long hibernation, they must teach him about the modern world and join Astra to save the universe.

Astra's new young friends will hide the superhero from their parents and deal with his insatiable hunger for modern desserts. The show is slated to air on Disney Channel India in 2017.

"At Disney, we believe in showcasing great stories with compelling characters. It is imperative to get the local texture right for any story to resonate and emotionally connect with the viewers.

"With Mr Bachchan associating with 'Astra Force', we will be bringing an interesting facet to storytelling in the local animation space," said Siddharth Roy Kapur, Managing Director, Disney India. 

Graphic India said no one but Bachchan could play a superhero on TV.

"Amitabh Bachchan is a real life superhero to millions including myself.. so its no surprise that he is the perfect person to become immortalised in this new animated avatar," said Sharad Devarajan, Graphic India's Co-Founder and CEO. 

Sharing his favourite animated characters, the Piku star said, "As a kid I used to play outdoor games, listen to radio, see Mickey Mouse cartoon, Batman, Laurel and Hardy."