Dateline: Mumbai | September 22, 2025
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| Vishal Jethwa Opens Up on Being Called the “Next Irrfan Khan” |
Lead
Actor Vishal Jethwa, who has been winning critical acclaim for his performances in films like Mardaani 2 and the recent Homebound, recently addressed being compared to the late legendary actor Irrfan Khan. While the tag of being the “Next Irrfan Khan” has been used by some fans and critics to praise his talent, Jethwa revealed that he finds the label difficult to accept and even “uncomfortable.”
Background
Vishal Jethwa made his Bollywood debut as the chilling antagonist in Mardaani 2 (2019), where he impressed audiences with his menacing performance opposite Rani Mukerji. Since then, he has gradually built a reputation as an actor who can bring authenticity and depth to diverse roles.
His latest performance in Homebound, a psychological drama, has once again drawn attention from critics who hailed his portrayal as “mature” and “brilliant beyond his years.”
Given his growing body of work, some critics and fans began calling him the “Next Irrfan Khan,” a title he addressed during a recent press interaction.
Vishal Jethwa’s Response
Speaking candidly about the comparisons, Vishal said:
“I couldn’t accept it when people started calling me the next Irrfan Khan. Irrfan sir is irreplaceable. He was one of a kind. Being compared to him is an honor, but it’s also scary because I don’t want to live under the pressure of becoming someone else.”
He went on to explain that while he admires Irrfan Khan deeply, his own journey is about discovering his unique path.
“I want to be remembered as Vishal Jethwa, not as a shadow of anyone else. Irrfan sir inspires me, but my goal is to tell stories in my own way.”
Why the Comparison?
The parallels between the two actors stem from:
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Acting Style: Both are known for natural, understated performances.
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Role Selection: Like Irrfan, Jethwa gravitates towards unconventional and challenging roles.
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Emotional Depth: Critics have noted Jethwa’s ability to bring nuance and empathy even to complex characters.
Film critic Anupama Chopra wrote in her review of Homebound:
“There’s a rare honesty in Vishal’s acting that reminds you of Irrfan Khan. But he has the potential to carve his own distinct identity.”
Industry Reactions
Several Bollywood veterans weighed in on the discussion. Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, a contemporary of Irrfan, commented:
“Every actor has their own journey. Irrfan was unique, and so is Vishal. It’s unfair to burden young talent with such comparisons.”
Director Gopi Puthran, who cast Jethwa in Mardaani 2, praised his humility:
“Even during auditions, I saw a spark in him. But what makes Vishal special is his dedication to growth. He respects legends but doesn’t try to imitate them.”
Fan Reactions
Fans have expressed both pride and empathy for Jethwa’s statement. On social media, one user wrote:
“Vishal is right. Irrfan Khan was one in a million. Vishal Jethwa is carving his own beautiful path.”
Another posted:
“The fact that he refuses to hide behind comparisons shows his maturity as an artist. We support you, Vishal!”
The debate has also sparked larger conversations about the tendency in Bollywood to compare new talent with past legends.
Broader Implications
The conversation reflects the challenges faced by emerging actors in the industry. While comparisons can boost visibility, they can also create undue pressure. Analysts believe Jethwa’s response reflects a new generation of actors who prioritize authenticity over fitting into established molds.
With OTT platforms and diverse content reshaping Indian cinema, actors like Vishal Jethwa have opportunities to build unique careers, free from the shadow of predecessors.
Conclusion
Vishal Jethwa’s candid remarks about being called the “Next Irrfan Khan” highlight both his humility and determination to create his own identity. While the comparison is a tribute to his undeniable talent, his insistence on being recognized as himself reflects a refreshing honesty rarely seen in young stars.
As his career unfolds, Vishal Jethwa is poised to become a distinctive voice in Indian cinema—not by being the next Irrfan Khan, but by being the first Vishal Jethwa.
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