After spending nearly 30 years in the entertainment industry, comedian-actor Suresh Menon has revealed that the struggle for meaningful roles hasn’t gotten any easier. Despite his long-standing presence in films and comedy, Menon shared that he still undergoes rigorous auditions and casting processes, often finding himself limited to stereotypical roles.
In a recent interview, the Bheja Fry 2 star candidly spoke about the harsh realities of “groupism” in the film industry. According to Menon, the roles he’s typically offered are narrowly defined, with him mostly being considered for “gay or South Indian characters.” He expressed frustration at being consistently sidelined, even for roles in light-hearted, ensemble films.
“Earlier, a hero could play a Bihari or a South Indian. Now, only stars get that privilege. Supporting actors like us have to wait endlessly. Even brainless comedies don’t call me. Ahmed Khan—I’m alive! ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ is happening and no one called me,” he said, directly addressing the filmmaker behind the upcoming multi-starrer project.
Menon didn’t stop there. Adding fuel to the long-standing debate around favoritism in Bollywood, he dismissed the term ‘nepotism’ as misleading and instead pointed to a more insidious form of exclusion. “There is no nepotism, that term is false. There is only groupism. If you can get into the right group, you survive. If not, you’re out,” he asserted.
He also reflected on his own interactions with industry insiders, noting that while he has worked alongside some of Bollywood’s biggest names, he’s never attempted to use personal relationships for professional gain. “I’ve never disturbed anyone in their personal life,” he added.
Menon’s remarks shed light on the less glamorous side of the entertainment industry, where longevity and talent don’t always guarantee access or opportunity.
