The actor calls out skyrocketing entourage fees and inflated actor salaries, warning that the industry is “bleeding.”
February 26, 2025: John Abraham Criticizes Bollywood’s Skyrocketing Costs: Calls Rs 2 Lakh Per Day Stylist Fees ‘Mental’
Actor-producer John Abraham has raised concerns over the unsustainable financial practices in Bollywood, particularly pointing out the massive fees charged by actors and their entourages. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter India, John called the practice of stylists charging ₹2 lakh per day “mental” and urged actors to wake up to reality before the industry collapses under its own weight.
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“The huge fees that we get paid, and the entourage costs—it’s ridiculous. You can’t be so daft. If people are blowing sunshine from your backside, you need to wake up and smell the coffee,” John stated.
Actors Must Cut Costs & Rethink Their Worth
John believes that actors should first slash their own fees and be willing to hear hard truths from directors.
“When a director tells you that you aren’t worth that much, you need to take that into cognizance. But instead, actors compare themselves to others and broadcast their fees—it’s the worst thing to do.”
He also stressed that actors should work on the backend and earn profits based on a film’s success rather than demanding outrageous upfront payments.
“How much more will you suck the system dry?” he asked, pointing out that Bollywood is stuck in a financial black hole due to these unsustainable demands.
Producers Also to Blame for Overpaying Stars
While actors bear responsibility, John also criticized producers for fueling the problem by overpaying stars in hopes of securing big openings. He emphasized that Bollywood should prioritize content over star power and cast actors based on the story’s needs rather than their marketability.
“Today, no actor can guarantee an opening. Get your content right first.”
The Bigger Issue: Studios Playing It Safe
John also took aim at studios for refusing to take risks and continuing to invest only in established stars, stifling creativity and growth in the industry.
“Make films, don’t make proposals,” he concluded, emphasizing the need for strong storytelling over star-driven projects.
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