Shah Rukh Khan Elicits Bold Advice from Akshay Kumar: “Never Sign a 3-Film Deal”

At the 70th Filmfare Awards, Akshay Kumar urged Bollywood hopefuls to reject restrictive multi-film contracts, referencing Aryan Khan’s The Ba**ds of Bollywood, and shared insights on longevity in the industry.

Bollywood’s biggest night — the 70th Filmfare Awards — witnessed a moment of honesty and humour when Shah Rukh Khan, hosting the evening, asked Akshay Kumar if he had one piece of advice for newcomers in the industry. What followed quickly became one of the night’s most viral moments.

Akshay, known for his direct and practical wisdom, said, “I want to say just one thing to all the newcomers and the upcoming newcomers — never sign a 3-film deal with any producer.”

He went on to refer to Aryan Khan’s Netflix hit The Ba**ds of Bollywood, which portrays the struggles of debutants in the film industry, adding, “You must have seen The Ba**ds of Bollywood and what our hero had to go through. The film makes it clear what a debutant should and should not do.”

Sharing the stage with Shah Rukh and Karan Johar, Akshay continued playfully, “Do not sign a 3-movie deal. Give your debutant freedom, allow them to run away. As it is said that ‘let them free — if they belong to you, they will come back.’” His humorous take drew laughter and applause from the audience, but his message hit home.

The Airlift star also reflected on his own career choices, saying, “I always say money attracts money, and similarly, work attracts money. No work is big or small. Sometimes I like the story of a film, but my role is small — I still do that film because I know that the movie is good and I want to be a part of history.”

He concluded by emphasising discipline and consistency as key to lasting success in Bollywood: “If you manage to get that right, you will be able to stay in this industry for a long time.”

Why Akshay’s Advice Struck a Chord

1. The Bads of Bollywood as a warning**
Aryan Khan’s The Ba**ds of Bollywood (released on Netflix in September 2025) explored the darker side of the movie business — including restrictive contracts that limit creative freedom. Akshay’s comment appeared to echo the film’s message, resonating with audiences and young actors alike.

2. Multi-film deals: a double-edged sword
In Bollywood, signing multi-film contracts is common for newcomers seeking stability, but such deals can often become limiting. They may tie actors to roles they don’t believe in or hinder creative growth. Akshay’s warning reminded newcomers to prioritise choice over comfort.

3. Akshay’s own example
With over three decades in the industry, Akshay Kumar has built a reputation for balancing commercial blockbusters with meaningful cinema. His ability to constantly reinvent himself — from action to comedy to drama — stems from the freedom to choose his projects, not being bound by rigid contracts.

4. The power of discipline
Akshay’s long-standing mantra of discipline, punctuality, and focus has become legendary in Bollywood. His words at the Filmfare Awards reaffirmed that real success in the industry isn’t just about talent or luck — it’s about persistence and professionalism.

In conclusion, Akshay Kumar’s Filmfare advice wasn’t just witty—it was wise. In an industry full of glitter and glamour, his message cut through the noise: for newcomers, creative freedom is worth more than a guaranteed contract. Build your career one honest choice at a time, and success will find you on your own terms.