Imran Khan Tells Khans: Transition from 'Leading Man' Roles as You Age

Actor Imran Khan has stirred debate with candid remarks on the evolving place of Bollywood’s biggest superstars, suggesting that Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan may need to move away from traditional hero roles as audience preferences change. Speaking in a recent interview, Imran said stardom, like any career, naturally transitions with age and time.

“For over thirty years, audiences have worshipped the Khans,” Imran said, adding that leading-man roles are not indefinite. He argued that actors eventually age out of certain parts and must adapt. According to him, all three Khans, now in their 60s, have enjoyed an extraordinary run that is unlikely to be replicated, making evolution a necessary and organic step in their journeys.

Imran explained that generational shifts play a crucial role in shaping audience connection. While longtime fans grow older with stars, younger viewers tend to gravitate towards performers closer to their own age and life experiences. “When we watch films, we try to see ourselves in those stories,” he said, noting that younger audiences may not instinctively relate to narratives centered on much older protagonists.

Also Read: SRK’s Heartfelt Shoutout to Rani Mukerji for Mardaani 3 Release

His comments come at a time when the box-office performance of the Khans has been mixed. Shah Rukh Khan returned strongly after a long hiatus with Pathaan and Jawan in 2023, though Dunki failed to match that momentum. Aamir Khan faced setbacks with Laal Singh Chaddha but earned praise for Sitaare Zameen Par for spotlighting its ensemble cast, while Salman Khan has seen inconsistent results in recent years, with Tiger 3 standing out as an exception.

Imran stressed that his observations do not diminish the legacy of the three actors, whom he described as unparalleled figures in Hindi cinema. Instead, he framed the shift as a natural progression, where storytelling and role choices evolve alongside changing demographics and tastes.

Meanwhile, Imran Khan himself is preparing for a return to acting. His upcoming film Adhure Hum Adhure Tum, a dysfunctional romantic comedy directed by Danish Aslam, marks his reunion with the filmmaker after Break Ke Baad (2010). The film, which also stars Bhumi Pednekar and Gurfateh Pirzada, has completed production but is yet to receive a release date.

Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan Shows Respect: Removes Sunglasses Instantly for CISF Official at Airport