Manoj Bajpayee Praises New-Age Actors, Rejects ‘Star’ Label in Industry Debate

Manoj Bajpayee has praised the new generation of performers for their discipline, preparation and versatility, saying the current environment allows both “actors to become stars and stars to become actors.” In an exclusive conversation with India Today, the acclaimed actor reflected on his bond with The Family Man 3 co-star Jaideep Ahlawat, his influence on younger performers, and why he refuses to call himself a star.

Bajpayee acknowledged the respect he receives from artists like Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma, Rajkummar Rao and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, noting that many of them often credit him, Irrfan Khan, and Kay Kay Menon for reshaping the industry’s perception of non-conventional actors.

“We came from theatre, worked hard, and changed how actors were viewed,” Bajpayee said. “Earlier, someone who wasn’t conventionally good-looking had no place in the industry. Our generation helped shift that definition.”

Discussing legacy, Bajpayee said the lines between stars and actors have blurred in today’s industry. He highlighted how performers like Jaideep Ahlawat, Rajkummar Rao, Vijay Varma, and Sunny Hinduja are well-rounded talents who take dance, acting, and other forms of training seriously. He added that aspirants aiming to become stars are equally focused on learning the craft, calling this discipline essential in modern cinema.

When asked whether he sees himself as an actor or star after three decades in the industry, Bajpayee dismissed the “star” label entirely. “A star is a perception,” he said. “I don’t take titles seriously. I’m just an actor. The lead doesn’t have to be a young man — it should be a character with depth, at any age.”

Bajpayee revealed that his next project, an adaptation of Last Man in Tower produced by Rana Daggubati, has already been filmed and is currently in post-production.