‘You can't be playing the lead after certain age’: Actor Imran Khan on why Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan should adapt with age

The journey of a Bollywood superstar is glamorous, yet it comes with its own unspoken rules, especially as actors age. Imran Khan, nephew of Aamir Khan, recently spoke about the natural evolution actors face over decades of stardom. Reflecting on the careers of Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan, he emphasized that while audiences adore them, there comes a point when continuing as a lead hero no longer fits the trajectory of their lives and careers.

Imran pointed out that the Khans, all in their 60s, have enjoyed over 30 years of unparalleled stardom. Yet, he believes transitioning into roles that suit their age is an organic part of an actor’s journey. Over time, the audience also changes. Younger viewers naturally gravitate towards characters closer to their own age and experiences, while long-time fans grow alongside the actor. This evolving dynamic influences both the types of roles actors take and how their stardom resonates across generations.

About Imran Khan

Imran Khan himself has a long-standing connection with Bollywood. The nephew of actor Aamir Khan and director-producer Mansoor Khan, and grandson of director-producer Nasir Hussain, he made his acting debut as an adult in 2008 with Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na, he won the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut. He also starred in movies like I Hate Luv Storys, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, and Delhi Belly. He was last seen in Katti Batti opposite Kangana Ranaut. After a long hiatus, he is gearing up for a comeback to the silver screen with his next project, Adhure Hum Adhure Tum. The film marks a reunion with director Danish Aslam, who previously collaborated with him on Break Ke Baad in 2010. Touted as a dysfunctional romantic comedy, it features Bhumi Pednekar and Gurfateh Pirzada in pivotal roles.