Mumbai: In what comes as a surprise to both Bollywood and Hollywood circles, actor Hrithik Roshan has reportedly turned down a lucrative offer to star in a major Hollywood science fiction film. Industry insiders say the decision wasn’t about money or scheduling conflicts—it was about something far more personal.
The 50-year-old actor, who has long been considered one of Indian cinema’s most bankable stars, was approached earlier this year for a tentpole sci-fi project backed by a major American studio. While the exact details of the film remain under wraps, sources familiar with the matter say the role would have positioned Roshan alongside A-list international talent.
“Hrithik was genuinely excited about the script,” a source close to the actor revealed. “But after careful consideration with his family and team, he felt this wasn’t the right time to shift focus away from Hindi cinema. He’s got some massive projects lined up here, and he wanted to honor those commitments.”
The decision reflects a growing trend among top Indian actors who are becoming increasingly selective about their international ventures. Unlike the rush to Hollywood that characterized the early 2000s, today’s stars seem more interested in elevating Indian cinema on the global stage rather than simply crossing over.
Roshan’s upcoming slate includes a highly anticipated action thriller and a period drama that has been in development for over two years. Both projects are said to have significant budgets and pan-India appeal, with the makers eyeing international distribution as well.
“This isn’t about rejecting Hollywood,” another industry insider noted. “It’s about Hrithik wanting to be part of the conversation that puts Indian stories and Indian filmmaking at the forefront globally. He believes that can happen from right here.”
The actor’s last theatrical release was well-received both critically and commercially, reinforcing his position as one of Bollywood’s most consistent performers. His decision to stay committed to Indian projects has been welcomed by fans and filmmakers alike, many of whom see it as a vote of confidence in the domestic film industry.
While neither Roshan nor his representatives have officially commented on the matter, those close to him say the actor remains open to international collaborations in the future—just not at the expense of the work he’s passionate about at home.
