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Abhishek Bachchan reacts to criticism over Amitabh Bachchan praising him, saying Big B is a father first and should be allowed to express pride openly.
Abhishek Bachchan addresses criticism around Amitabh Bachchan praising him publicly, saying his father is allowed to be human and express pride like any parent.
When Abhishek Bachchan made his debut with Refugee in 2000, expectations followed him instantly. Being Amitabh Bachchan’s son meant every performance would be scrutinised through the lens of legacy. Even 25 years later, the pressure hasn’t eased. Turning 50 on Thursday, Abhishek admitted that repeated criticism and public failures can take a psychological toll.
Speaking to E Times, the actor acknowledged that constant scrutiny does affect you. “Of course, you get cynical,” he said, adding that failing in public, week after week, makes it difficult to remain untouched by negativity. Abhishek noted that setbacks are often rubbed in an actor’s face, and sometimes even enjoyed by others. “So you get cynical, but you have to try your best to not remain cynical or be bitter about it,” he said. However, he maintained that bitterness has never been his way of dealing with life. Despite everything, he prefers to focus on what has gone right rather than what hasn’t.
‘Life Has Served Me Well, Even If Not Always’
Abhishek shared that while life hasn’t always been fair, it has largely been kind to him. He believes it’s important to recognise both sides of the journey instead of dwelling only on failures. According to him, cynicism is almost unavoidable, but allowing it to define one’s outlook is a choice.
On Amitabh Bachchan and Parental Pride
The actor also spoke about his parents, Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan, and whether they are proud of him. For Abhishek, their pride is tied to effort, not box-office numbers. As long as he gives his best, he believes he has their support.
He also reflected on how the world often views Amitabh Bachchan only as a larger-than-life icon. “For some reason we think, ‘Oh no, he’s not allowed to be that or be human’, but he is,” Abhishek said. Calling himself Amitabh’s “child,” he added that the legendary actor is also a father and grandfather, allowed to feel and react like any parent would.
A Difficult Phase at the Box Office
Abhishek Bachchan has struggled to deliver a solo hit in recent years. Films such as Kaalidhar Laapata, Be Happy, I Want to Talk and Ghoomer failed to find box-office success. His last hit was Housefull 5, a multi-starrer featuring Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Shreyas Talpade, Nana Patekar and Jackie Shroff.
What’s Next for Abhishek Bachchan
On the work front, Abhishek will next be seen in Shah Rukh Khan’s King, which also stars Suhana Khan and Deepika Padukone. He also has Raja Shivaji in the pipeline. At 50, the actor remains reflective but resilient, choosing perspective over bitterness as he moves forward in his career.
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February 05, 2026, 17:20 IST
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