Vikrant Massey may have earned critical acclaim for 12th Fail and solidified his position in Bollywood, but the actor says there are still people in the industry who make him feel like an outsider. In a recent interaction wit IANS, Massey reflected on how a section of the film fraternity continues to treat him as “lesser,” despite his consistent work and rising popularity.
He clarified that the issue isn’t rooted in nepotism alone. While many assume that it’s the star kids who belittle outsiders, Vikrant stressed that it's more about individual mindsets. “It’s not about being a star kid,” he said, explaining that some people—regardless of their background—attempt to make others feel small. He added that several star kids have actually treated him with respect.
Criticism Fuels Fire
Despite the discouraging behavior, Massey chooses not to be affected negatively. Instead, he sees these experiences as fuel that keeps him motivated. He said that people who look down on him help keep the “inner fire” alive, pushing him to prove himself repeatedly. He admitted that many within the industry don't like him as an actor and some even call him “overrated.” However, such opinions only strengthen his resolve to keep improving.
According to Massey, every time his film performs well, it feels like a personal victory against the doubt surrounding him. For him, criticism is not a setback—it’s a driving force. He acknowledged that this kind of underestimation isn’t new and still continues today, but he has learned to use it to his advantage.
While he may continue to face doubt from certain quarters, Massey has made it clear—he’s not here to seek approval. He’s here to prove that consistent hard work can outshine doubt, and that respect in the industry is earned, not given.
He clarified that the issue isn’t rooted in nepotism alone. While many assume that it’s the star kids who belittle outsiders, Vikrant stressed that it's more about individual mindsets. “It’s not about being a star kid,” he said, explaining that some people—regardless of their background—attempt to make others feel small. He added that several star kids have actually treated him with respect.
Criticism Fuels Fire
Despite the discouraging behavior, Massey chooses not to be affected negatively. Instead, he sees these experiences as fuel that keeps him motivated. He said that people who look down on him help keep the “inner fire” alive, pushing him to prove himself repeatedly. He admitted that many within the industry don't like him as an actor and some even call him “overrated.” However, such opinions only strengthen his resolve to keep improving.According to Massey, every time his film performs well, it feels like a personal victory against the doubt surrounding him. For him, criticism is not a setback—it’s a driving force. He acknowledged that this kind of underestimation isn’t new and still continues today, but he has learned to use it to his advantage.
Career Built from Ground Up
Massey’s journey began in television, starting with Dhoom Machao Dhoom in 2007. He appeared in shows like Dharamveer, Balika Vadhu, and Qubool Hai before transitioning to films with Lootera in 2013. Since then, he has featured in over 18 films, gradually becoming one of the industry's dependable names. From lesser-known projects to box office hits, his growth has been steady, marked by both praise and skepticism.Upcoming Project
Currently, Vikrant Massey is promoting his next film, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, a romantic drama co-starring Shanaya Kapoor. Directed by Santosh Singh, the film is set to release in theatres on July 11. Fans are looking forward to seeing Massey in a new avatar, and the actor himself remains focused on evolving, both personally and professionally.While he may continue to face doubt from certain quarters, Massey has made it clear—he’s not here to seek approval. He’s here to prove that consistent hard work can outshine doubt, and that respect in the industry is earned, not given.
