Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan should embrace age-appropriate roles, says Imran Khan

For over three decades, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan have ruled Hindi cinema like an unshakable trio. Generations grew up idolising them, and for years their names alone guaranteed packed theatres. But the Bollywood landscape has shifted. Today’s viewers are less star-struck and more story-driven, quick to dismiss films that fail to strike an emotional chord - regardless of the face on the poster.

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Amid this change, actor Imran Khan believes the time has come for realism to replace nostalgia. Speaking candidly, he pointed out that maturity must reflect in the roles actors choose. As he said “You cannot be playing the lead after a certain age”.

Imran Khan on Ageing and Evolving as Actors

During a conversation with SHOWSHA, Imran reflected on the Khans’ longevity in the industry.

He said, “As a leading man, actors also start to age out. There are certain years where you can work as a leading man, and then there comes an age where you are not able to play those roles. All three Khans are well into their 60s now. They have had 30 years of stardom, the likes of which are hard to conceive or parallel."

Further, Imran added, "I think a part of it is simply organic, an inevitable part of any actor’s journey, that as you age, you start to transition the kind of roles you play.”

According to him, evolution is not a decline but a natural progression - a shift that every performer eventually experiences.

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Stardom Has a Shelf Life

Imran further explained that fame itself transforms with time. He said, “Your stardom also starts to transition because there is an audience that knows you and grows with you, and then there is a whole new younger generation that begins to attach itself to people closer to them in age and experience."

Imran added, "When we watch films or shows, first and foremost, we are trying to see ourselves in those stories and characters. That’s what resonates with you. Instinctively, you connect with someone who is closer to your age and life experience. The younger generation might not want to watch the story of a 70 year old man.”

His point underscores a simple truth - relatability fuels connection. Younger viewers gravitate toward stories that mirror their own lives, while older stars may find stronger resonance in roles reflecting wisdom, experience, and gravitas.

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A Moment for Reinvention

Rather than clinging to conventional hero roles, Imran suggests reinvention. By embracing characters suited to their age and journey, the Khans could unlock fresh narratives and deeper performances. After all, cinema evolves - and so must its icons.