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Saif Ali Khan Recalls Being Told Never to Play a Cop On-Screen

Saif Ali Khan has revealed that a director once advised him to never play a cop on-screen because he lacked gravitas and would appear comedic. The actor recalled this advice at the trailer launch of his upcoming film 'Kartavya', where he essays a police officer. He noted that through consistent work and learning, he grew into the role and found it a proud moment to wear the uniform. 'Kartavya', directed by Pulkit and produced by Gauri Khan, will stream on Netflix from May 15, 2026.

Key Points: Saif Ali Khan on Being Told He Can't Play a Cop

  • Saif Ali Khan recalls being told by a director to never play a cop on-screen
  • The director felt he lacked gravitas and would look comedic
  • Saif credits hard work and learning for his growth as an actor
  • He plays a cop in the upcoming streaming film 'Kartavya'
  • The film is directed by Pulkit and produced by Gauri Khan
2 min read

Saif Ali Khan recollects being told to never play a cop on-screen

Saif Ali Khan shares how a director warned him never to play a cop due to lack of gravitas, and how he later proved them wrong in 'Kartavya'.

Saif Ali Khan recollects being told to never play a cop on-screen
"Don't play a cop ever seriously in your life because you can't do it. You don't have the gravitas or you don't have the power or the strength to do it. - Director to Saif Ali Khan"

Mumbai, May 7

Actor Saif Ali Khan, who essays the role of a cop in the upcoming streaming film 'Kartavya', has shared that he was told to never play a cop by a director.

The actor attended the trailer launch of the film on Thursday, and said that he was told by one of his directors that he is not fit to play a cop because he came across as humorous, and lacked "gravitas" as a cop.

He said, "The first time I wore a uniform was in 'Main Khiladi Tu Anari' ka climax. Akshay Bhai was the main tough cop and I was this guy in the film who was trying to learn. My director told me at the time, 'Don't play a cop ever seriously in your life because you can't do it. You don't have the gravitas or you don't have the power or the strength to do it. It'll look like a comedy. Never do it'. So it's amazing how if you keep working and keep practising and keep learning, and maybe you grow into something. And 'Sacred Games' was a wonderful learning experience with some beautiful directors".

He further mentioned, "You're playing the person, not really playing a cop. But when you put on that uniform, there is a sense of pride and responsibility and kind of power that one gets for sure. And to be able to carry it, is a big thing for me because of this beginning I had, I told you, but it was not always like that. So it's a great feeling to be able to do it because I'm a huge admirer of the police".

The film is directed by Pulkit and produced by Gauri Khan under the banner of Red Chillies Entertainment. 'Kartavya' is set to stream on May 15, 2026 on Netflix.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Honestly, I think Saif brought something unique to cop roles—an intellectual edge. Not every cop needs to be a muscle-bound action hero. His portrayal in 'Sacred Games' was nuanced, and I'm looking forward to 'Kartavya'. Slightly concerned about the title though—sounds like a patriotic caricature. Hope it's better.
M
Michael C
Impressive growth from Saif. It's not easy to reinvent yourself after being typecast. I remember him in 'Hum Saath Saath Hain' thinking he was just a chocolate hero. Now he's playing layered cops. Shows what persistence can do.
K
Kavya N
I appreciate Saif's humility in sharing this story. But let's be real—'Sacred Games' worked because of Anurag Kashyap and the writing. His cop act in 'Tandav' was forgettable. Hope 'Kartavya' has substance beyond the uniform. Also, why is Gauri Khan producing so many of these? 👀
J
Jessica F
Loved his honest reflection! It's inspiring to see an actor take criticism as motivation. Saif's journey from 'Main Khiladi Tu Anari' to 'Sacred Games' is a masterclass in growth. Can't wait to see 'Kartavya' on Netflix!
R
Rajat Srivastava
Saif is a class act, no doubt. But I wish directors would stop giving such unnecessary advice to actors. Imagine telling someone they 'can't' play a cop based on their face value. Judging by appearance is so last century. Glad he proved them wrong. 🎬

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