'SRK is an institution, not just a superstar': 'King’ actor Akshay Oberoi on King Khan's 'phenomenal legacy'

Akshay Oberoi is living his childhood dream as he shares screen space with Shah Rukh Khan in the upcoming film ‘King’. With the project nearing completion, the actor says the experience has left him exhilarated and grateful. For Oberoi, the decision to join the film was instant. Working alongside Khan, he says, feels like stepping into a chapter of Indian cinema history while carving his own place within it.

According to Mid-Day, Oberoi spoke about the project as the film moves into its final stages, sharing his thoughts with the media on what the opportunity means to him and how it has shaped his outlook as an actor.

Dream role alongside an icon

“When you get an offer to feature alongside Shah Rukh Khan, you don’t say no,” Oberoi said, explaining why he signed ‘King’ without hesitation. “I’ve grown up watching his films, admiring his journey, and being inspired by his incredible body of work.”

Oberoi described Khan as far more than a movie star. “Shah Rukh Khan is not just a superstar; he is an institution in himself,” Oberoi said. He added that what strikes him most is Khan’s work ethic and attitude. “His discipline, humility, and professionalism are unmatched, and it’s unbelievable how grounded he remains even after decades of ruling hearts across the globe.”

Oberoi plays a pivotal role in the film, which also stars Suhana Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Abhishek Bachchan. Being part of such an ensemble, he says, has raised the bar for him every day on set.

Akshay Oberoi on learning from a legacy

Calling the experience transformative, Oberoi said working so closely with Khan has been a masterclass. “Working side by side with Shah Rukh has been a huge learning experience,” he shared. “His contribution to cinema over the past several decades is phenomenal.”

For Oberoi, the pride comes from being linked to that history. “Being connected to that legacy, even in a small way, feels extremely rewarding,” he said.

'King', an action film directed by Siddharth Anand features Shah Rukh Khan leading an ensemble pack of actors like Deepika Padukone, Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff and Arshad Warsi. The film is touted to release in 2026.