R. Madhavan Signals End of His Romantic Hero Era with ‘Aap Jaisa Koi’

R. Madhavan, often regarded as one of Bollywood’s most beloved romantic heroes, has announced that his latest Netflix release, Aap Jaisa Koi, might mark the end of his journey in the genre. The actor, who rose to fame with iconic roles in films like Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein (2001), shared his thoughts on the subject in a series of interviews, sparking widespread discussion about his legacy and the evolution of romance in Indian cinema.

The Legacy of a Romantic Hero

Madhavan first captured hearts with his portrayal of Maddy in the 2001 cult classic Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein (RHTDM). The film, a Hindi adaptation of Gautham Menon’s Tamil hit Minnale, remains a staple in the genre, earning Madhavan the status of a romantic legend. Over the years, he continued to dominate this space with notable performances in films like Alaipayuthey, Dil Vil Pyar Vyar, and the immensely popular Tanu Weds Manu series. His charm and relatable portrayal of love-struck protagonists endeared him to audiences across generations.

However, Madhavan has also showcased his versatility by exploring other genres. From the gripping biographical drama Rocketry: The Nambi Effect to the intense Tamil thriller Vikram Vedha, and even the horror-thriller Shaitaan (2024), he has proven his mettle as a multifaceted actor. Yet, his association with romance remains a defining aspect of his career.

The Making of Aap Jaisa Koi

Released on Netflix on July 11, 2025, Aap Jaisa Koi is a mature romantic drama that explores companionship and the beauty of balanced love. Directed by Vivek Soni and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, the film stars Madhavan as Shrenu Tripathi, a 42-year-old Sanskrit professor from Jamshedpur, and Fatima Sana Shaikh as Madhu Bose, a 32-year-old French teacher from Kolkata. The story revolves around their journey from an arranged marriage setup to discovering love in unexpected circumstances.

Speaking to Just Too Filmy, Madhavan revealed that his decision to take on the role stemmed from a desire to portray age-appropriate romance, a theme rarely explored in mainstream cinema. “When I started this story, I thought I will be able to pull off a romantic story at the day and the age I was. Because I was looking for an age-appropriate romance. Maybe my last chance to do romance before I have to give it up completely,” he shared. His co-star, Fatima Sana Shaikh, has also been praised for her nuanced portrayal of Madhu, a modern, independent woman navigating societal expectations.

Critical Reception and Mixed Reviews

While Aap Jaisa Koi has been lauded for its progressive narrative and Madhavan’s heartfelt performance, it has also faced criticism. The Telegraph India noted that despite its potential, the film struggles to seamlessly integrate its social themes, such as patriarchy, sexual freedom, and culture clashes. The chemistry between Madhavan and Shaikh was described as inconsistent, with their interactions occasionally feeling forced.

The film also draws comparisons to recent Bollywood releases like Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, particularly in its depiction of progressive Bengali families. However, reviewers like OTTPlay appreciated the film’s introspective climax, which challenges traditional notions of masculinity and relationship dynamics. “The moral of the narrative is that being ‘not like other men’ is insufficient. Self-reflection and personal growth are continuous processes,” the review noted.

Why Aap Jaisa Koi Could Be Madhavan’s Last Romantic Film

Madhavan’s decision to step away from romantic roles reflects broader changes in the Indian film industry. In an interview with India Today, he remarked on the increasing focus on age-appropriate romances. “Now all the heroes are thinking, ‘Woh zamana gaya’ – the time is gone when you could be much older and still pretend to be the same age as the heroine and romance her,” he stated. This shift comes amid growing criticism of unrealistic portrayals of love and relationships in Bollywood.

For Madhavan, Aap Jaisa Koi represents not just a personal milestone but also a broader commentary on evolving societal norms. His character, Shrenu, embarks on a journey of self-awareness, challenging deep-seated patriarchal biases. The film’s conclusion, which emphasizes mutual respect and growth over traditional romantic tropes, mirrors Madhavan’s own perspective on relationships and his career.

As fans bid farewell to R. Madhavan’s romantic hero era, they are left with a legacy of heartfelt performances that have shaped the genre and a hope that his future projects will continue to challenge and inspire.