One show can change everything. That’s the lesson Sharib Hashmi learned when he landed the role of JK in The Family Man. While he had already made a mark with films like Filmistaan—a cult classic that gained traction over time—and even shared the screen with Shah Rukh Khan in Jab Tak Hai Jaan, it was Raj & DK’s gripping series that truly redefined his career. But here’s where it gets controversial: The Family Man didn’t just bring him fame; it gave him something far more valuable—the power to choose. And this is the part most people miss: before the show, Sharib was taking whatever roles came his way, hoping for that one big break. In an interview with News18 Showsha, he candidly shared, ‘After Filmistaan, I wanted to do something exceptional, but many projects got shelved. Maybe it was written in my destiny.’
The struggle was real. For three years, Sharib had no releases, and the industry’s fickle memory began to fade him into obscurity. ‘I’d go to events, pass by people, and no one would even ask how I was,’ he recalled. But The Family Man changed the game. His on-screen chemistry with Manoj Bajpayee resonated deeply with audiences, and the industry finally gave him the respect he deserved. Now, he’s selective about his roles, even if it means risking typecasting. ‘I don’t mind playing more characters in the forces,’ he said, ‘but the challenge is finding a role as strong as JK.’
Post-The Family Man, Sharib’s career has been on an upward trajectory. From memorable roles in Tarla and Vikram Vedha to a negative character in Sudhir Mishra’s Afwaah, he’s embraced versatility. Up next? Priyadarshan’s thriller Haiwaan, where he plays a cop with grey shades—a role ‘poles apart from JK.’ But what truly warms the heart is the impact his performance had on Manoj Bajpayee’s daughter, Ava. ‘She was in awe when she saw me,’ Sharib shared. ‘Her starry-eyed reaction and the photos we took together made me so happy.’
Here’s the bold question: Does success in one role limit an actor’s range, or does it open doors to greater opportunities? Sharib’s journey suggests the latter, but we’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your take in the comments—do you think typecasting is a risk worth taking for career growth? Or is versatility the ultimate goal? Let’s spark a conversation!