Tusshar Kapoor says attempts were made to derail his career because of his film background: ‘Aap hero dikhne ke laayak nahi ho'

Indian Express

24-05-2025

It's difficult for star kids to escape the ever-evolving debate around nepotism. While they enjoy certain privileges, they are also subjected to intense scrutiny, especially in today's hyper-critical environment. Actor and son of veteran star Jeetendra, Tusshar Kapoor, who made his acting debut in 2001 with Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai, recently reflected on how things were different back then — but not entirely free of judgment.
In a conversation with Hindustan Times, Tusshar acknowledged that the nepotism conversation wasn't as prevalent when he entered the industry. However, he admitted that there was a concerted effort by a section of the media to malign his image because of his film background. Recalling his early days, he said, 'Especially if you were from a film background, then the glass is always half empty for a certain section of the media. You have to be very thick-skinned. Bahut neecha giraane ki koshish, bahut negativity thi (There were efforts to pull you down, a lot of negativity).'
The Golmaal actor went on to claim that attempts were made to derail his journey in the industry, but he chose to maintain a thick skin and focus on his work. Reflecting on the release of his debut film, he said, 'The film (Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai) released, and it did really well. Otherwise, I could have been crushed under this pressure. I didn't come into the industry feeling I had to live up to someone's expectations. But there was an attempt to constantly judge and derail my path.' Tusshar went on to express his gratitude to the audience for supporting him
He also spoke about the pressure of public appearances that comes with being a star kid. According to Tusshar, even something as basic as showing up at a press event could spark criticism. He shared, 'If you come to a press conference naturally without makeup and hair, you are criticised that aap hero dikhne ke laayak nahi ho (you don't look like a hero). If you come with makeup and hair done, you are told you are too filmy. Everyone was trying to pull you down.'
While Tusshar conceded that landing a debut film may be easier for star kids, he was quick to point out that success isn't guaranteed. 'You can get your first film much easier. But even that is a chance. To finish that film and what choices you make after that, it's all unknown. The constant scrutiny and that feeling of 'no matter what you do, the glass is half empty', that is something you have to face and move on from,' he shared.
Tusshar's latest release Kapkapiii — a remake of the Malayalam film Romancham — hit theatres on Friday. The film also stars Shreyas Talpade and Siddhi Idnani.