In a candid and grounded conversation, Suniel Shetty shared strong views on why producers deserve the highest respect in the film industry and why actors must rethink how they approach money, fame and responsibility before anything else. Speaking from experience, the actor made it clear that Bollywood survives not because of stars alone but because producers who take the risk and how they bring projects to life.
Staying Grounded Despite Success
During the latest exclusive interview with Lehren, reflecting on his own journey the actor shared that success never made him step away from hard work. Even today, he prefers being hands-on rather than placing all the burden on his staff. As he believes dignity lies in doing your own work, no matter how big your name becomes – something he now passes on to his son Ahan too, who is currently navigating a similar phase in his career.
To which speaking about parenting and values, he said, “100%. To treat people, to respect people, to be a gentle soul…” adding that humility matters more than fame.
Why Producers Deserve Respect First
Adding on, one of the strongest points he made was about where actors should place their loyalty. According to Suniel Shetty, actors must respect producers even before directors because producers bring the money that keeps films alive.
He stated clearly, “To make sure that you are your producer’s boy and not necessarily you are directors’ boy. Producers boy because Lakhsmi vo leke aate hai aur jo Lakshmi lekar aata hai usko aapko respect karna chahiye.”
He went on to explain how the industry has shrunk over the years, naming major banners and producers who continue to sustain cinema today. “Respect karna zaruri hai kyuki industry chalti hai producers ke wajah se… pehle 50 producers the, aaj 5 ya 7 gine chune hai. Keep them alive! Because if you keep them alive, you’ll keep the industry alive.” He mentions how Aditya Chopra, Karan Johar, Sajid Nadiadwala, T-Series and Maddock are current pillars of the industry who hold the whole industry together and he warned if people continue pulling producers down, then the industry itself will suffer. His message was clear – “keep producers alive, and the industry stays alive.”
On Fees, Fair Pay & Partnership
But when asked about actors charging high fees, he defended the right to fair remuneration. However, he also suggested a smarter approach. “Zyada hi maangne lage, unke haq ka le rahe hai vo kyuki requiry bhi hoti hai,” but he said before adding that actors should consider becoming partners in films and take the share rather than only charging upfront fees. “Mera bolna yeh hai ki charge utna karo lekin partner banke aao film mein, aap share le lo…”
For detailed conversation catch the interview below:
