Abhishek Bachchan reveals how directors refused to launch him due to the fear of handling Amitabh Bachchan’s legacy
Bollywood star Abhishek Bachchan shared a lesser-known anecdote about his early years in the film business, discussing how multiple directors were unwilling to launch him because of the burden of being the son of the legendary Amitabh Bachchan.
Abhishek described it as “disheartening” when people would say to him, “We don’t want the responsibility of launching Amitabh Bachchan’s son.”
The actor, known for films like Guru, Bunty Aur Babli, and Dostana as well as the web series Breathe, mentioned the enormous expectations he immediately faced even before entering the industry.
Abhishek remembered that while he was enthusiastic as an entertainer and had undergone serious preparations, several filmmakers were reluctant to cast him. They were afraid of having to succeed under the lens of his father, not just a superstar in India, but a global superstar.
“They were afraid of the burden, the expectations often placed upon being Amitabh Bachchan’s son,” he said.
Abhishek stated that he had chances rejected infinitely many times before he received his debut role in the J.P. Dutta 2000 film Refugee. “I had directors who said directly to me: ‘We don’t want that burden. If you fail, that makes it look like we failed Amitabh Bachchan’s son.’ That was disappointing.”
Abhishek had a unique upbringing – being the son of Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan and following in their bellwether footsteps would leave anyone feeling a little apprehensive.
While he said he was happy to come from a legendary family, this “fairly impossible” lineage also created unrealistic expectations. “There wasn’t a second chance. Everyone expected me to deliver a blockbuster on day one.”
Abhishek further closed the chapter on the competitiveness or rivalry created by living in the shadow of his father. “Even if I did well, people would say it’s because of my father. If I were unsuccessful, they would say that I’m just another person without the talent of my father.”
Abhishek’s career has been a rollercoaster ride. Some of his films may not have worked, but he never gave up. “Every failure taught me something,” he said. “I realized I had to prove myself by my work alone, not by my family name.”
He believes his family helped him through the rough times. He said, “My parents never interfered in my career. They allowed me to make mistakes and learn from them. It made me more mature.
Abhishek has established an identity of his own over the years in the film world. His performances in Yuva, Guru, and Manmarziyaan were appreciated by everyone. In the last couple of years, he has also made a name in the digital space, starring in web shows and impressing audiences with his impactful acts.
“I’m grateful for the fact that I have never received anything easily. It makes me appreciate my journey even more,” said the star.
Abhishek Bachchan’s candid admission about his struggles early on in Bollywood serves as a reminder that even star kids face obstacles. His story illustrates that a backup last name is just as important as talent, dedication, and patience.
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