For years, Bollywood gossip circles have whispered that Shahid Kapoor might be a “difficult” actor to work with. Though no filmmaker has ever openly accused him of unprofessional behaviour, the perception has lingered since his early days in the industry. Shahid himself once addressed these rumours during the promotions of Teri Meri Kahaani in 2012, explaining that his reserved nature often made him seem like a snob. He also admitted that at 22, he was indeed temperamental and still learning how to navigate the industry.
Now, the old speculation resurfaced — but this time with a humorous twist — at the trailer launch of Shahid’s upcoming film O Romeo. Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj, who is collaborating with Shahid for the fourth time after Kaminey, Haider, and Rangoon, playfully addressed the actor’s so-called reputation.
“I’m hesitating to share this, but I will,” Vishal said with a grin. “I’ve won nine National Awards so far. My director friends joke that I should win my tenth National Award just for working with Shahid on four films.” The audience erupted in laughter as Vishal added that people often misunderstand who the real “difficult” person is on set. “They don’t know how difficult I am to work with. Only Shahid understands my passive aggression. In fact, Shahid should win a National Award for working with me,” he quipped.
Shahid was quick to fire back with his own humorous take. “Vishal sir praises you in private, but in public, pant utaar dete hai,” he joked, hinting at the director’s blunt honesty. He added that Vishal has a unique way of expressing himself, and it takes years to understand his sense of humour. “Rekha ma’am would agree. But I think I’m finally getting there,” Shahid smirked.
Their easy camaraderie also put to rest long-standing rumours of tension between them. Back in 2009, reports claimed Shahid and Vishal had a fallout during Kaminey. Shahid later clarified that it was merely a creative disagreement, not a personal rift. Vishal echoed that sentiment, saying the media loves creating stories. “Between us, nothing like that happens. Shahid and I are like Laxmikant-Pyarelal or Kalyanji-Anandji. When we come together, some magic is created. I don’t know how or why — it just happens,” he said.
Vishal also praised Shahid’s talent, calling him one of the finest actors of his generation. “I’ve worked with legends like Pankaj Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah and Om Puri. And I can say Shahid stands among the best. His performances have depth. He draws from life and transforms it into art.”
With O Romeo on the horizon, the duo’s reunion promises yet another cinematic collaboration — and plenty of laughter behind the scenes.