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'A Story Makes an Actor a Star'
The Morning Standard
|December 07, 2025
Jaideep Ahlawat speaks with Shama Bhagat about the latest season of The Family Man, and how OTT platforms transformed his career
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Jaideep Ahlawat has earned a reputation for stealing scenes with quiet intensity, but he insists it's never the actor, but the story, that shines. With the new season of The Family Man, he steps into Rukma, a character whose arc unfolds from the first frame. In this conversation, he reflects on working alongside Manoj Bajpayee, the craft of building a role, and the way OTT has reshaped stardom.
What attracted you to Rukma's character in The Family Man series?
When you know the franchise, you know that the ground is prepared. There are zero chances to go wrong in any direction. You see Rukma's journey from the opening scene.
You can see the arc of his character in the entire season.
Besides, I was very keen to work with Manoj Bajpayee, and I knew I would have scenes with him. There was no reason to say no to the show.
Were there any pressures about working with Manoj Bajpayee, known for his impeccable performances?
This story is from the December 07, 2025 edition of The Morning Standard.
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