Imran Khan on losing big films to Shah Rukh Khan and Abhishek Bachchan: 'I was quite devastated'

Bollywood actor Imran Khan has opened up about a string of major film opportunities that slipped through his fingers early in his career, including Chennai Express and Delhi 6. Speaking candidly after returning to films following a 10-year hiatus, Imran reflected on how his then-untested status in the industry cost him roles that later became high-profile projects for other stars.

In an interview with PTI news, Imran revealed that he auditioned for Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Delhi 6 back in 2006–2007, even before he made his debut with Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Naa in 2008. At the time, he said, filmmakers were hesitant to take a chance on someone without a proven track record.

“At various points, there have been films that just didn’t come together. With Mehra, it was Delhi 6. I had not made any films yet and tested for the lead, but they didn’t want to invest in an untested actor,” Imran said.

The project held personal significance for him, as he deeply connected with the story. “I was born in the States and grew up as a child of two worlds, so I connected with the character. I would have loved to be part of that film,” he explained. Looking back, the disappointment still feels vivid. “The film has aged well. At the time, I was quite devastated not to get the part, but they wanted a more established actor. This was before my debut.”

The role eventually went to Abhishek Bachchan, and Delhi 6 went on to become one of Mehra’s most discussed films for its themes and setting.

Imran also spoke about losing out on Bhavesh Joshi Superhero, a project he was associated with for nearly a year. The 2018 film, directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, eventually starred Harshvardhan Kapoor. Imran said his exit from the film followed the underwhelming response to his 2013 release Gori Tere Pyaar Mein.

“I got dropped from the film, which was out of my hands. The film turned out well. It’s unique and original, and I appreciate that someone tried to push boundaries,” he said, adding that the decision was more about circumstances than creative differences.

Another major near-miss was Rohit Shetty’s Chennai Express, which went on to become one of the biggest blockbusters of 2013 with Shah Rukh Khan in the lead. Imran revealed that Shetty had approached him for the film shortly after the success of Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Naa.

According to Imran, he and the filmmaker had several discussions and even sat through a full narration. However, both eventually realized they were not aligned creatively. “We had a couple of conversations about it, but we figured we weren’t in sync creatively,” he said.

He recalled enjoying the script but questioning his suitability for the role. “The narration was hilarious, and the film turned out to be exactly that. I understood what he was going for and found it funny, but I didn’t feel I was a good fit for the role.” Imran said he was upfront with Shetty about his concerns. “I told him, ‘I don’t see us syncing.’ Shah Rukh was a better choice. I don’t think I could top Shah Rukh.”

Imran Khan, now 43, made his debut in 2008 with Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Naa, which became a breakout hit and established him as a romantic lead. He went on to star in a string of popular films including I Hate Luv Storys, Break Ke Baad, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu, and Delhi Belly, showcasing a mix of romance, comedy, and offbeat storytelling.

His recent reflections offer a rare look into how timing, perception, and industry risk-taking can shape an actor’s trajectory. While some missed opportunities were painful at the time, Imran’s comments suggest a sense of perspective, acceptance, and renewed clarity as he steps back into the world of cinema.