Aryan Khan to make Netflix directorial debut

It can't hurt to have parents like Shah Rukh Khan and producer Gauri Khan. After Suhana Khan's acting debut in The Archies on Netflix, it seems her brother Aryan Khan is stepping into the limelight with the streamer—but as a director. If Shah Rukh is the king of Bollywood, does that make Aryan the prince?

Netflix has just announced a collaboration with Red Chillies Entertainment for a yet-untitled Bollywood series set to premiere in 2025. Produced by Gauri, this series marks Aryan's directorial debut, a milestone for the eldest son of one of Indian cinema's most influential families.

The project, which was unveiled during an event in Los Angeles hosted by Netflix's Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria, promises to be a bold and entertaining foray into the world of Bollywood. According to Netflix's press note, the series will explore the film industry through the eyes of an ambitious outsider. With its multi-genre approach, the show is expected to be a "high-stakes narrative" infused with self-aware humour, blockbuster cameos, and extravagant characters.

Shah Rukh expressed his excitement about the venture, describing it as a heartfelt project. "We are excited to present this new series with Netflix that offers a refreshing look into the glamorous cinematic world and what it takes to succeed as an outsider. It's a unique narrative brought to life by Aryan, many passionate minds and the team at Red Chillies Entertainment. This one's going to be all heart, all hustle, and a whole lot of entertainment," he said.

Monika Shergill, Vice President of Content at Netflix India, also praised Aryan's vision. "We're thrilled to partner with Red Chillies Entertainment once again - this time, for a very special series, directed by Aryan Khan. Aryan brings a bold and dynamic directorial vision and has created something truly one-of-a-kind and thoroughly entertaining. It builds on our shared passion for fresh voices and quality storytelling, and we can't wait for our members to watch it," she said.

The series will be the sixth collaboration between Netflix and Red Chillies Entertainment, following projects like Darlings, Bhakshak, Class of '83, Betaal, and Bard of Blood. Each of these has explored distinct genres, and Aryan's debut promises to continue this tradition. Set to premiere in 2025, the series will no doubt draw significant attention.