When ‘Jana Nayagan’ actor Thalapathy Vijay opened up about his admiration for Shah Rukh Khan: 'I look up to Shah Rukh Khan'

As Vijay stands at the cusp of a significant shift from cinema to public life, older interviews and statements from the actor continue to resurface and spark conversations. Among them is a particularly interesting reflection where the ‘Jana Nayagan’ star spoke about the individuals who have shaped his thinking over the years.During a conversation with Rahul Kanwal, Vijay candidly spoke about his admiration for Shah Rukh Khan. Praising the Bollywood superstar, he said, “I look up to Shah Rukh Khan; he speaks so well. His articulation, his elocution is very high. I used to see him, and I used to think, look at how well-spoken this guy is.” The statement quickly caught attention, highlighting how even established stars like Vijay continue to be inspired by their peers.Beyond the world of films, Vijay also acknowledged the influence of towering political figures such as M. G. Ramachandran, J. Jayalalithaa, and M. Karunanidhi. He described them as role models, not just for their popularity but for their ability to connect with people and leave a lasting impact. For Vijay, their journeys represent what can be achieved with vision and determination, something he appears to be drawing from as he explores a path beyond films.While this throwback moment has generated positive buzz, Vijay’s upcoming film ‘Jana Nayagan’ has encountered its share of setbacks. The much-anticipated project reportedly suffered a major financial blow after it was leaked, leading to losses estimated at around Rs 70 crore. In addition, its OTT deal is said to have fallen through, raising concerns about its overall distribution strategy and commercial prospects.Despite these challenges, the makers remain committed to bringing the film to theatres. ‘Jana Nayagan’ has experienced multiple delays in recent months, but it is now reportedly aiming for a worldwide release on May 8, 2026. With expectations still running high, fans are keen to see how the film performs and what it means for Vijay’s cinematic journey moving forward. Vijay will be next seen in 'Jana Nayagan'.