Jacqueline Fernandez, a prominent Bollywood actress, is celebrated for her roles in films like *Kick*, *Housefull 3*, and *Judwaa 2*. Her remarkable career has led to significant recognition, including a spot on Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list in 2013. This comprehensive guide explores her life, career, and controversies.

Biography/Wiki

Born on August 11, 1985, in Manama, Bahrain, Jacqueline Fernandez hails from Colombo, Sri Lanka. Affectionately known as Jacky to her loved ones, she harbored early aspirations of a Hollywood career. Her Bollywood journey began unexpectedly during a 2009 modeling assignment in India. While auditioning for *Aladin*, her lack of Hindi proficiency was overcome with the help of her flat broker. This led to a pivotal role opposite Amitabh Bachchan and Riteish Deshmukh.

Physical Appearance

Jacqueline is admired for her striking features and captivating smile. Standing at approximately 5’7″ and weighing around 56 kg, she maintains a dedicated fitness routine. Her dark brown eyes and black hair complete her distinctive look.

Family, Caste & Boyfriend

Jacqueline’s father, Elroy Fernandez, is a Sri Lankan businessman, and her mother, Kim Fernandez, is a Malaysian air hostess. She has two older brothers and a sister. A devout Christian, Jacqueline’s family background includes notable connections, such as her cousin, Frederica Jansz, a well-known Sri Lankan journalist.

Her romantic relationships have been a subject of public interest. She was previously involved with Bahraini prince Sheikh Hassan Bin Rashid Al Khalifa for two years and later dated film director Sajid Khan for over three years. In 2020, she became involved with conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, a relationship that would later become embroiled in controversy.

Career

Jacqueline’s educational background includes schooling at Sacred Heart School, Bahrain, and a Mass Communication degree from the University of Sydney, Australia. Her early career highlights include hosting a television show at age 14 and participating in various beauty pageants. Before modeling, she worked as a TV reporter in Sri Lanka and later enhanced her language skills at the Berlitz School of Languages, learning Spanish, French, and Arabic.

Her achievements include winning Miss Sri Lanka in 2006 and appearing in the music video “O Sathi.” After moving to India, she honed her acting skills at the John School of Acting and landed numerous modeling assignments. Her film career took off with *Aladin* (2009), followed by prominent roles in successful films like *Murder 2*, *Housefull 2*, and *Kick*. Beyond Bollywood, she also appeared in the British film *Definition of Fear*. Her versatility extends to hosting, as seen in her role hosting the IIFA Awards (2013) and judging *Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa* (2016).

Controversies

Dishoom Song Controversy

In 2016, the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Committee (DSGMC) protested the use of what they believed to be a Kirpan in the song “Sau Tarah Ke” from the film *Dishoom*. The actors clarified that it was an Arabian dagger.

Conman Sukesh Money Laundering Case

Jacqueline faced questioning by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2021 regarding a money laundering case involving Sukesh Chandrashekhar. The ED alleged that she received numerous expensive gifts and financial benefits from Chandrashekhar. The case involved multiple summons, airport detentions, and the attachment of her assets.

The ED investigation detailed numerous gifts received by Fernandez, including designer bags, clothing, jewellery, a car (later returned), and substantial cash payments. The investigation also highlighted how Chandrashekhar contacted Fernandez and the extent of the gifts provided. The case led to a chargesheet, court appearances, bail applications, and significant media attention.

Defamation Suit

In December 2022, a defamation suit was filed against Jacqueline by Nora Fatehi.

Car Collection

Jacqueline owns an impressive collection of luxury vehicles, including a BMW i7, Hummer H2, Mercedes-Benz Maybach S500, Range Rover Vogue, BMW 525D, Audi, and Jeep Compass.

Assets/Properties

Reports in 2023 indicated that Jacqueline purchased a residence in Pali Hill, Bandra, Mumbai.

Facts

Here are some interesting facts about Jacqueline Fernandez:

• Avid animal lover and PETA supporter, she is a vegetarian.
• Supports Pratham’s elephant conservation efforts in Sri Lanka.
• Runs an NGO in Sri Lanka to help the underprivileged.
• Owns the Kaema Sutra restaurant in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
• Known to be meticulous and organized.
• Enjoys alcohol.
• Admires Leonardo DiCaprio, Shah Rukh Khan, and Angelina Jolie.
• Favourites films include *The Bridges of Madison County* and *Gone with the Wind*.
• Enjoys wearing sarees and prefers the color white.
• Sketches and has studied under painter Nilesh Vede.
• Loves to travel; Italy is a favourite destination.
• Prefers Issey Miyake perfume.
• Her favourite Mumbai restaurant is Pali Village Cafe.
• Speaks English, Hindi, Spanish, Arabic, and French.
• Ranked among the World’s Sexiest Asian Women in 2008 and 2011.

Jacqueline Fernandez’s Notable Film Roles