Shah Rukh Khan Stops Fan From Taking a Selfie on Stage at Joy Awards 2026, Fans Defend Actor

Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan found himself at the centre of a viral moment during the Joy Awards 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, after he intervened when a fan attempted to take a selfie with him on stage. A video clip from the event shows the actor smiling as he briefly took the fan’s phone and guided them to face the official photographers instead - a short interaction that quickly went viral across social media platforms.

The moment occurred while Shah Rukh Khan was presenting an award. As an individual beside him reached out for a selfie, the actor calmly retrieved the mobile device and gestured towards the main camera setup, where official photographs were being captured. He then returned the phone and resumed the formal proceedings. Moments later, Khan repeated the same gesture when another person attempted to take a selfie, ensuring that the event’s official photography protocol was followed.

The video’s caption noted that while some viewers initially interpreted the action as dismissive, others argued that such moments are often misunderstood, particularly at high-profile, high-security award ceremonies. In formal settings like the Joy Awards, even brief interactions can appear different from their original intent.

The internet reaction was swift and divided, but a significant section of Shah Rukh Khan’s fans came out strongly in his defence. Many pointed out that personal selfies on stage during an award ceremony can disrupt professional photography and affect the overall flow of the event. Supporters emphasised that official photographers are strategically positioned to capture well-framed images of presenters and award recipients, and spontaneous selfies can interfere with that process.

One social media user commented that he was simply guiding people to look toward the main camera so that the award recipient and the moment would be captured properly. Another online supporter explained that Khan was merely ensuring everyone received a proper photo with the award rather than an off-angle mobile snapshot.

Others stressed that seeing a personal device being taken briefly should be viewed in the context of ceremony etiquette rather than disrespect. They suggested that in crowded, formal events, public figures often follow protocols designed to keep official photography and broadcasting running smoothly.

Despite some initial criticism, many fans felt the interaction showed Khan’s professionalism and calm handling of an unexpected situation. Rather than reacting angrily, he smiled, redirected the fans to pose for the official photographers and continued with the award presentation, subsequently posing for professional pictures.

Shah Rukh Khan’s appearance at the Joy Awards 2026 was among several standout moments at the international ceremony, which featured global stars from the film and entertainment industries. His calm handling of the situation reinforced, for many viewers, the delicate balance celebrities must maintain between being approachable and upholding formal decorum at major global events.