CNN-News18 Indian of The Year 2023: Was Shah Rukh Khan's remark 'If I play the bad guy' a dig at Ranbir Kapoor's Animal?

The superstar himself, Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan was rightfully named the Indian of the Year Award by CNN-News18. After giving not one but three back-to-back blockbusters at the box office, it’s no doubt that he ruled the year 2023 and rightly deserves the award.

SRK started the year 2024 on a memorable note by making an appearance at the 13th edition of CNN News18 Indian of the Year. The actor spoke on an array of topics. He also interacted with the audience, making it a fun-filled and entertaining evening for all.

At the event, SRK, who has been refraining from playing negative roles on the big screen for several years now, appeared to be taking a dig at Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s controversial film ‘Animal’. Stating that he believes in telling happy stories, SRK shared that if he ever plays a negative role, he would make sure that the character dies a dog’s death.

Shah Rukh Khan on playing ‘bad guys’

Speaking at the News18 event, the actor said, “I am someone who is hopeful and likes to tell happy stories. I play characters who do the good things and give hope and happiness. If I ever have to play a bad guy, I would make sure he suffers a lot and dies a dog’s death. Because I believe goodness begets goodness and I believe badness deserves a kick on the backside.”

He further stated that he wants to play honest roles that will give people the courage to dream. “I should keep working hard quietly with the hope that life doesn’t topple my apple cart anytime soon,” SRK added.

Ranbir Kapoor starrer Animal has been criticized since its release for having a misogynistic attitude towards women and glorifying violence. While director Vanga has been defending his stance, the film did well at the box office, making over 900 crores worldwide.

SRK’s work front

2023 completely belonged to Shah Rukh Khan as he delivered three blockbusters with Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki. Making a comeback to films after a long hiatus, the actor proved why he is ‘Badshah of Bollywood’.

While SRK is yet to announce his next project, if reports are to be believed, he will begin work on his next film in mid-2024.