Amitabh defends son Abhishek as 'victim of nepotism negativity'

Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has spoken out in support of his son Abhishek Bachchan, highlighting a post that described junior Bachchan as a "victim of nepotism negativity." 

On Tuesday, Amitabh took to social media to praise Abhishek’s talent and versatility after news portal Bollywood Talkies shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing Abhishek in a white tuxedo on the red carpet. The post said, “Abhishek Bachchan unnecessarily became the victim of ‘nepotism’ negativity, but the amount of good films in his filmography is very high.”

Amitabh reshared the post, adding, “I feel the same… and not just because I am his father.”

This isn’t the first time Amitabh has praised his son. Ahead of the release of Abhishek’s upcoming film Be Happy, also starring Nora Fatehi, Amitabh applauded his son’s ability to evolve as an artist. He wrote, “Abhishek, you are extraordinary. How you adapt and change with each film character is incredible. Love you, Bhaiyu.”

In another post, Amitabh admired Abhishek’s red carpet style, calling it “superior” and adding, “The walk, the grace, and THE STYLE… no fuss, just a normal being.”

Bollywood is often criticized for promoting star kids while limiting opportunities for newcomers who do not have illustrious surnames. Recently, audiences questioned the casting of Sri Devi’s daughter Khushi Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan’s son Ibrahim Ali Khan in Netflix’s Nadaaniyan, despite mixed reviews of their previous performances.

Abhishek entered Bollywood in 2000 with Refugee with Kareena Kapoor. He saw early success with hits like Dhoom, Bunty Aur Babli, and Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna. However, after 2010, his films, including high-profile ventures Raavan, Game, and Players, didn’t perform well at the box office.

Abhishek then made a strong comeback with critically acclaimed projects like Ludo, Breathe: Into the Shadows, The Big Bull, and Bob Biswas.

Abhishek’s upcoming film, Be Happy, explores a father-daughter relationship and reunites him with his Ludo co-star Inayat Verma. He is also set to return to the Housefull franchise for its fifth installment.