Haven’t charged acting fees for the past 20 years: Aamir Khan
In a recent interview, Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan revealed that he hasn’t charged acting fees for the past 20 years. The renowned actor stated that he only earns money if the film he is a part of does well at the box office. This unique approach to earning a living is not uncommon in the European film industry, where actors often follow a similar practice.
Khan’s decision to forgo acting fees is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his passion for creating meaningful and impactful films. By focusing on the success of the film rather than his individual earnings, Khan is able to ensure that his work is driven by a desire to entertain and inspire audiences, rather than purely financial gain.
Khan’s comments were made during an interview for the Ideas of India 2025 initiative, where he discussed his approach to acting and filmmaking. When asked about his decision to stop taking film fees, Khan explained, “I have stopped taking film fees as an actor. I only earn if the film does well. This is an old practice of earning money for performances and it is widely followed in Europe even today.”
This approach is indeed common in Europe, where many actors and actresses choose to earn a percentage of the film’s profits rather than a fixed fee. This method is often referred to as a “profit participation” deal, where the actor’s earnings are tied to the film’s commercial success.
Khan’s decision to adopt this approach is likely motivated by his desire to be part of a film’s creative process, rather than simply being a hired hand. By earning a percentage of the film’s profits, Khan is able to share in the risk and reward of the filmmaking process, and is more likely to be invested in the success of the film.
This approach also allows Khan to maintain his creative autonomy, as he is not beholden to a fixed fee or a rigid production schedule. With no fixed fee to worry about, Khan is free to focus on perfecting his craft and bringing his unique vision to the screen.
Khan’s decision to stop taking film fees is also likely a reflection of his commitment to his fans and the Indian film industry. By choosing to earn a percentage of the film’s profits, Khan is able to share in the success of the film and reward his fans for their loyalty and support.
Khan’s approach to acting and filmmaking is a refreshing change from the traditional model, where actors are often paid a fixed fee for their work, regardless of the film’s success. This approach can result in a lack of accountability and a focus on individual earnings, rather than the success of the film as a whole.
In contrast, Khan’s decision to earn a percentage of the film’s profits encourages him to work harder and be more invested in the success of the film. This approach also allows him to build a more sustainable career, as he is able to earn a steady income from his work, rather than relying on a single paycheck.
Khan’s comments also highlight the importance of the European film industry’s approach to actor compensation. The practice of earning a percentage of the film’s profits is a more equitable and sustainable way of compensating actors, as it rewards them for their hard work and dedication, rather than simply their presence in the film.
In conclusion, Aamir Khan’s decision to stop taking film fees for the past 20 years is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his passion for creating meaningful and impactful films. By earning a percentage of the film’s profits, Khan is able to share in the risk and reward of the filmmaking process, and is more likely to be invested in the success of the film. This approach also allows him to maintain his creative autonomy and build a more sustainable career.
