{
  "id": 12358993,
  "title": "Why did producers fear no heroine would work with Amitabh Bachchan?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/why-did-producers-fear-no-heroine-would-work-with-amitabh-bachchan",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-06T09:46:13.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/entertainment/bollywood/why-did-producers-fear-no-heroine-would-work-with-amitabh-bachchan-1.500700172"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Amitabh Bachchan shared during an episode of 'Kaun Banega Crorepati 18' how early producers doubted actresses would collaborate with him. Contestant Vinamra, whose grandfather was a film distributor, noted how Bachchan's iconic hairstyle emerged from his insecurities about being unable to find work. Initially, producers claimed he was too tall, that no heroine would work with him, and that his face was too small. To address these concerns, Bachchan began growing his hair, letting it flow towards his temples to create a fuller appearance. His debut film was 'Saat Hindustani' in 1969, but he faced difficulties establishing himself as a leading actor. However, his career took a turn with 'Zanjeer' in 1973, which propelled him to stardom and the 'angry young man' persona. Over time, the traits he once considered disadvantages — his height, face, and deep voice — became defining characteristics of his screen presence. At 80 years old, Bachchan continues acting and hosts the popular quiz show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'.",
  "summary": "Amitabh Bachchan has opened up about the struggles he faced during his early years in Hindi cinema, recalling how producers once questioned whether leading actresses would agree to work with him. The veteran actor shared the story during an episode of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 18’, while discussing the hairstyle and long sideburns that later became closely associated with his iconic image. During…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}