I wouldn't want to play any of papa's roles: Junaid Khan
Actor Junaid Khan acknowledged the perks of his famous lineage while insisting he wants to be known for his own talent. In an interaction with us, the actor said being Aamir Khan ’s son does make things easier for him. “I do come from a very wealthy family,” Junaid said, reflecting on his father’s massive influence. “Papa is respected, loved and powerful. There are privileges that come with that. I generally benefited from them.”
Talking about whether his career would’ve been different without his father’s influence, Junaid says, “Yes, Adi Chopra knows who I am because I’m Aamir Khan’s son. He doesn’t come to Prithvi theatre to watch plays. Most people know me because I am Aamir Khan’s son. But I have been fortunate that there are few comparing me to him. Basically people are judging me by my own talent and trajectory in my career so far, which is a good thing in a way. It will be tough if I am compared to my father.”
Junaid revealed that Aamir Khan offered practical guidance during the making of Maharaj but avoided shaping his acting choices. “Papa didn’t have much to do with Maharaj. He’d heard the story and liked it but asked me if I was sure I wanted to take on such a big film early in my career. He saw the final cut and liked it, but with him, if you need specific advice, he’ll always give you solid, practical advice, like how to stay warm shooting in the rain or how not to squint when the lights are too bright. He is not one who will essentially hand out acting tips.”
When asked if he would reprise one of his father’s iconic roles, Junaid made his stance clear. “I wouldn’t want to play any of papa’s roles. Not really. There would be too many comparisons. And frankly, why mess with something that’s already there? Plus, a lot of the roles he does, I just wouldn’t be able to do, especially considering I’m twice his height. That makes a huge difference, particularly in films.”
— With inputs by Manas Mishra
Junaid revealed that Aamir Khan offered practical guidance during the making of Maharaj but avoided shaping his acting choices. “Papa didn’t have much to do with Maharaj. He’d heard the story and liked it but asked me if I was sure I wanted to take on such a big film early in my career. He saw the final cut and liked it, but with him, if you need specific advice, he’ll always give you solid, practical advice, like how to stay warm shooting in the rain or how not to squint when the lights are too bright. He is not one who will essentially hand out acting tips.”
When asked if he would reprise one of his father’s iconic roles, Junaid made his stance clear. “I wouldn’t want to play any of papa’s roles. Not really. There would be too many comparisons. And frankly, why mess with something that’s already there? Plus, a lot of the roles he does, I just wouldn’t be able to do, especially considering I’m twice his height. That makes a huge difference, particularly in films.”
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