Veteran actor Suniel Shetty recently opened up about the increasing scrutiny faced by star kids in the film industry today, acknowledging that the landscape has dramatically shifted since his own time in Bollywood. In a candid conversation, Shetty expressed his concerns about how the children of celebrities are now constantly under the microscope, facing relentless criticism and pressure to prove their worth beyond their last name.
“Things are different now,” Suniel said. “When I started out, audiences were focused on the performance and the film. Today, there’s an entire digital world that has given everyone a voice—and not all of it is constructive. It’s not just feedback anymore; it often turns into brutal criticism. Everybody seems to be a critic.”
According to Shetty, while earlier generations of actors had the space to grow, make mistakes, and find their footing over time, the current generation, especially those from film families, are denied that luxury. “These kids are judged even before they say a word or make their debut. The minute they’re spotted, whether it’s in a gym, airport, or restaurant, they’re already under intense public scrutiny. That kind of attention can be overwhelming, especially when you’re young and just starting out.”
He went on to say that the expectation from star kids is twofold: not only must they match the legacy of their family, but they must also convince the audience that they deserve to be there in their own right. “It’s no longer about being a star kid. Today, you need to have substance. You need to work harder than everyone else to be taken seriously,” he explained.
The Hera Pheri actor also touched upon the role of social media in amplifying this pressure. “Social media has created a platform where everyone is quick to judge. There’s no room for patience. A trailer drops, and within minutes there are hundreds of comments—some positive, but many filled with negativity, memes, and trolling. It’s not criticism, it’s bashing. And that’s the unfortunate reality of our times.”
Despite acknowledging the hardships, Shetty was optimistic about the future of these young talents. He believes that the fire to prove oneself often leads to stronger, more grounded performers. “Those who rise above the noise, who keep their head down and focus on the craft, they eventually earn the respect they deserve. You can’t fake talent for long in this industry.”
He also shared that he frequently speaks to his own children, including actor Ahan Shetty, about navigating the industry with humility and resilience. “I tell them: Let your work speak. Success won’t come overnight, and neither will acceptance. But if you’re sincere and consistent, the audience will eventually see you for who you are—not just whose child you are.”
Suniel Shetty’s words serve as a powerful reminder of the evolving nature of fame and the added burden carried by star kids in an age where opinions are instantaneous and often unforgiving. His message, however, is clear—hard work, perseverance, and authenticity are still the strongest tools for survival in showbiz.
