Because of limited opportunities or unfortunate choices in their careers, many actors tend to get labeled as ‘bad actors.’ However, we believe there are a few so-called bad actors who possess a reservoir of untapped potential and need the right opportunities to be unleashed on the big screen.
Today, we delve into the stories of a few such actors who have been unfairly branded as “bad,” despite showcasing their remarkable skills and delivering commendable performances in critical roles. The truth is, these actors may have faced a lack of opportunities to truly shine, leaving their true talent hidden from the limelight. Or, they may have chosen the wrong scripts that ruined their impression on the audience and earned them the unfair label of bad actors.
Here are some so-called bad actors who have surprised us with great performances in critical roles but didn’t get their due credit:
1. John Abraham
John Abraham is often criticized for his acting abilities, but he is actually a talented actor, especially in action-packed roles. He knows how to captivate the audience with his moves and has delivered convincing performances. In movies like Dhoom and Baabul, he showcased his skills and even earned a nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He has also excelled in movies like New York, Dostana, Desi Boyz, Force, Madras Cafe, Parmanu, and Satyamev Jayate. And, how could we forget to mention John Abraham’s recent performance in Pathaan?
2. Imran Khan
Imran Khan made a successful debut with Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, which earned him accolades for his charming portrayal. Despite the initial success, he faced some setbacks in his career. However, his performances in movies like I Hate Luv Storys, Break Ke Baad, Delhi Belly, and Ek Main Aur Ekk Tu were appreciated and earned him nominations for Best Actor. Imran had potential, but perhaps some poor choices affected his career and earned him an unfair label of a ‘bad actor.’
3. Katrina Kaif
Although Katrina Kaif may not be the best actress in the industry, she has redeemed herself with some noteworthy performances. She convincingly portrayed a spoilt brat named Jazz in Namaste London and delivered a solid supporting role in New York. Rajneeti showcased a different side of her acting abilities. Her roles in Mere Brother Ki Dulhan, Zero, Ek Tha Tiger, and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara were well-received, and she even won awards for her performances in various genres.
4. Abhishek Bachchan
While he may not be considered one of the best actors in Bollywood, he is certainly not “bad” as many claim. He delivered strong performances in movies like Yuva and the Sarkar franchise. In terms of entertaining roles, he stood out in movies like Bunty aur Babli, Dostana, and Happy New Year. His iconic performance in Guru is unforgettable. There is no doubt that Abhishek deserves better roles to showcase his abilities.
5. Riteish Deshmukh
Riteish Deshmukh is another actor who hasn’t received his due credit. Not only in comedy roles, but he has also proven his skills in negative roles as well. Though he may not be the best actor, calling him a bad actor is definitely a bit harsh. With his presence in the Housefull, Dhamaal, and Masti franchises, he has brought laughter to the audience. He has also impressed audiences with his performances in serious and dark roles, such as in Ek Villain and Marjaavan.
6. Siddharth Malhotra
From time to time, Siddharth Malhotra has been called out for his bad acting skills. Many people have criticized him for not being able to portray characters in a way that connects with people. We do understand that Siddharth Malhotra may not be the best actor, but he definitely has untapped potential. How he left the audience impressed with his performance in Shershah is another reminder that the label of a bad actor is unjustified!
7. Sonakshi Sinha
Sonakshi Sinha has been in the industry for a decade and received a warm welcome with Dabangg. However, since then, only a few of her movies have stood out. She gave a commendable performance in Lootera opposite Ranveer Singh and showed a different side of herself in movies like Ittefaq and Mission Mangal. She made a recent OTT debut with Dahad and left the audience quite impressed. There is no doubt that Sonakshi’s true potential is yet to be fully explored, and she still has room to shine.
8. Parineeti Chopra
Parineeti Chopra is another Bollywood actress who hasn’t made a significant mark in the industry. However, she has shown her potential through some impressive performances. She was notable as Zoya Qureshi in Ishaqzaade and as Gayatri in Shudh Desi Romance. Her role as Meeta Solanki in Hasee Toh Phasee revealed a different side of her personality and how could we not mention Meri Bindu? While she may not be considered one of the best, labeling her as “bad” would be unfair.
9. Aditya Roy Kapur
Aditya Roy Kapur left the audience impressed with his powerful act in Aashiqui 2 and then he stole the show in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. However, he made so many wrong choices that many were left disappointed. With countless bad choices like Sadak 2, Fitoor, Dawat-e-Ishq, Ok Jaanu, Kalank, and more, people started questioning his acting skills. But with his current performance in The Night Manager, many feel that he needs the right opportunities to unleash his untapped potential.
Do you have any other actors in mind who you believe should be included on this list? Tell us in the comments below.Â