“I’m Nobody Yet” — Ibrahim Ali Khan Breaks Silence in Filmfare’s April Cover Story on Debut, Trolls, Palak Tiwari & Life Under the Spotlight
Mumbai: He may resemble his father Saif Ali Khan with those sharp looks and charismatic presence, but Ibrahim Ali Khan is determined to create his own path in Bollywood. In his very first exclusive interview with Filmfare for their April issue, Ibrahim opens up like never before—offering rare insight into his debut film, handling online backlash, growing up with a star-studded lineage, and the constant comparisons.
When asked about his rumored connection with actress Palak Tiwari, the 23-year-old flashes a cheeky smile and simply calls her “a good friend.” Although initially nervous, Ibrahim soon settles into an honest and relaxed conversation, revealing a mix of vulnerability and wit that’s refreshing in today’s celebrity culture.
His debut film Nadaaniyan may have received a lukewarm reception, but Ibrahim owns it with humility. “I was raw,” he admits. “There’s a long road ahead, and I’m okay with that.” Acknowledging both the privilege and pressure of being a star kid, he reflects on the expectations that come with his famous surname. “People came in expecting something grand. But Nadaaniyan was always meant to be a light, feel-good rom-com you watch on a lazy evening,” he says, defending the film’s tone.
Ibrahim doesn’t shy away from addressing the hate he faced online. “Social media is brutal right now. A lot of stuff was twisted. And yes, I got trolled. But that’s part of the job, I guess.”
A recent controversy involving a Pakistani journalist also finds its way into the conversation. “I shouldn’t have reacted. The comment about my body felt personal and unfair, but I’m learning. This won’t happen again,” he says, showcasing a surprising level of maturity for someone so new to fame.
Talking about the changing face of stardom, Ibrahim offers a grounded perspective. “In 2025, the script and the director are the stars. That era of larger-than-life icons—Ranbir, SRK, Salman, Saif, Aamir—is over. I’m not a star. I’m nobody. I just want to do good work and let the work speak.”
He’s also frank about nepotism. “Let’s be honest—I’m Saif Ali Khan’s son. The industry gives us the platform. But after that, it’s all us. Audiences are smart—they won’t support bad content just because of a name.” He adds with a grin, “With Saif as my dad, Sara as my sister, and legends like Sharmila Tagore and Amrita Singh in the family—sometimes I wonder if I even get to have an opinion on the debate.”
As for being compared to his father? Ibrahim takes it all in stride. “He’s a good-looking guy! I’m definitely not crying about inheriting that face. I’m proud of who he is. People keep comparing Nadaaniyan to Hum Tum—where he won a National Award. Let’s be real—you can’t compare that.”
And when the spotlight’s off, Ibrahim’s just your average guy. “Cold coffee, FIFA, Call of Duty, Trackmania on the PS5, chilling with my dog and close friends—that’s my vibe,” he says with a laugh.
