New Delhi: Aryan Khan is stepping into the director’s chair for his debut on Netflix. His father Shah Rukh Khan may be India’s most photographed actor, but it’s the magic behind the camera that Aryan is interested in. His decision even drew praise from actor and Lok Sabha MP Kangana Ranaut who said that the film industry needs more people behind the cameras.
“The project, as per my sources, has been tentatively titled Stardom,” said film critic Sumit Kadel.
It’s certainly caught the attention of fans and the entertainment industry with film critics calling it a “smart” and “interesting” move.
“If he becomes an actor, the comparison would always be there no matter what. This way (as a director) he would get a better shot at establishing himself as a separate creative entity,” said film critic Ashameera Aiyappan.
Produced by Gauri Khan under the Red Chillies Entertainment banner, the “one-of-a-kind Bollywood series” is set to release in 2025.
It’s a special day when a new story is being presented for the audience. Today is even more special as @RedChilliesEnt and Aryan Khan embark on their journey to showcase their new series on @NetflixIndia,” Shah Rukh Khan posted on X.
Aryan’s directorial debut has come a year after Jason Sanjay, son of Tamil film star Thalapathy Vijay, announced that he has joined hands with the makers of Rajinikanth’s Vettaiyan (2024) for his debut film.
‘The road less travelled’
Expectations are high. Everybody’s curious about the series, and already drawing parallels between the two Khans.
“I expect the series to be untamed story telling …controlled chaos…gutsy scenes and lots and lots of fun and emotions,” said Aiyappan. Kadel is hoping that SRK will make a cameo appearance.
And, according to Kadel, a directorial debut with Netflix will give Aryan the “creative freedom to showcase his talent without the pressure of box office numbers or constant comparisons to Shah Rukh Khan.”
The big announcement was made at an exclusive event in Los Angeles on 19 November, followed by an Instagram post.
“Witness Bollywood like never before.. on Netflix. Presenting Aryan khan’s directorial debut in an all new series, coming soon,” read the caption.
Kangana Ranaut also commented on Aryan’s career track, describing it as “a road less travelled.”
Re-sharing Netflix’s announcement post on Instagram Stories, Ranaut wrote:
“It’s great that children from film families are going beyond just wanting to wear make-up, lose weight, doll up, and think they are actors.”
“We need more people behind the cameras. It’s good that Aryan Khan is taking the road less travelled. I look forward to his debut as a writer and filmmaker,” she added.
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Family cheers
While details about the cast and crew are still tightly under wraps, the series promises a mix of drama, humour, and Bollywood magic.
Set against the glitzy backdrop of the film industry, it follows the journey of an outsider navigating the high-stakes, chaotic world of Indian cinema.
The series is a blend of Blockbuster cameos, larger-than-life characters, and a tongue-in-cheek take on the Bollywood dream.
“Here’s to untamed storytelling, controlled chaos, gutsy scenes, and lots of fun and emotions. Go forth and entertain people, Aryan, and remember—there’s no business like show business,” Shah Rukh Khan said in a post on X.
The family is rallying behind him.
“Lots of laughs, drama, action and a little bit of trouble— just like it is always with you. I cannot wait! So proud,” Aryan’s sister Suhana Khan wrote on Instagram Stories.
This project marks the sixth collaboration between Netflix and Red Chillies Entertainment, following hits like Darlings, Class of ’83, Betaal, Bard of Blood, and Bhakshak.
Aryan’s venture into cinema follows the success of his entrepreneurial efforts. He co-founded the streetwear and spirits brand, D’Yavol that has been well-received.
(Edited by Aamaan Alam Khan)