Amitabh Bachchan Recalls Early Struggle: 'Too Tall, Go Home' on Film Set

Amitabh Bachchan has recalled the criticism and struggles he faced during the early years of his acting career, including an incident when he was asked to leave a film set because he was considered “too tall.”

During a special episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 18, Amitabh interacted with Commonwealth Games 2026 gold medallists Lovlina Borgohain, Jhandu Kumar, Sharmila Dhankar and Asmita Dey. Asmita asked the veteran actor whether he had faced the kind of scolding on film sets that athletes sometimes receive during training after making mistakes.

In response, Amitabh opened up about the criticism he received when he was starting out in the film industry. He recalled being told that he did not know how to act and was too tall, with people even asking him to go back home.

The veteran actor said that once he started getting opportunities to work, directors and others on film sets continued to correct him. He recalled being asked to stand in particular positions and deliver dialogues differently when his performances did not meet expectations.

According to Amitabh, the repeated criticism and corrections gradually helped him improve as an actor.

The Sholay star also recalled another incident from his early career when he was reprimanded for arriving late to a shoot.

Amitabh said he generally tries to reach film sets on time, but on one occasion he arrived late after travelling in someone else's car because he did not have a vehicle at the time.

When he reached the set, the director was reportedly waiting outside. Amitabh recalled being told that the shoot had already been packed up and that he should leave.

The actor's recollections highlighted the difficulties he experienced before establishing himself as one of the biggest stars in Indian cinema. He also explained how criticism, discipline and repeated corrections became part of his learning process during the early phase of his career.

At 83, Amitabh Bachchan continues to remain active in films and television. He will next be seen in Kalki 2 alongside Prabhas. The film is expected to release in theatres in December 2027.