Actor Bobby Deol has spoken candidly about one of the biggest disappointments of his career, revealing that losing Jab We Met during a challenging phase of his professional journey left him heartbroken but ultimately helped him grow as both an actor and a person.

Bobby Deol says losing Jab We Met made him a “better person and a better actor”

Appearing on Aap Ki Adalat, Bobby reflected on how he was closely associated with the development of the film long before it was eventually made with Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan. While the film went on to become a major success, Bobby admitted that missing out on the project was particularly painful because of where he stood in his career at the time.

“That story is done now. We’re friends. My heart got broken because I needed a film like this during that phase of my career,” Bobby said.

The actor also recalled his early belief in filmmaker Imtiaz Ali’s talent. According to Bobby, he was deeply impressed by the director’s work while he was making Socha Na Tha and was eager to collaborate with him. “I had great confidence in Imtiaz since the time when he was making Socha Na Tha with Abhay. When I watched the rough cut, I was so taken in and excited by his work. I thought he’s such a good director; I should work with him,” he shared.

Bobby explained that the two initially planned to make a film together, but securing support for the project proved difficult. He said the industry’s perception of an actor’s market value often influences whether projects receive backing. “That’s when we first decided we’d make a film together. But when your market position isn’t good, nobody backs you. So much time passed trying to get the film started. The production house I pitched it to said Imtiaz is a very expensive director. But the same production house ended up making the film with Imtiaz, and with the same heroine I’d gotten on board,” he recalled.

Despite the disappointment, Bobby said he chose not to hold on to bitterness. Instead, he used the experience as motivation to improve himself. “These things do happen. It never happens that only good things happen to someone,” he said.

The actor further added, “When I began working on myself, I decided the hurt and anger I’ve gone through should become my strength. Because you can’t just keep crying about it. These things made me a better person and a better actor. I’ve only learnt from them. I don’t have any qualms with anyone.”

Over the past few years, Bobby has enjoyed a significant career resurgence with projects such as Animal and Aashram. Up next, the actor will be seen in filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s Bandar, which is scheduled to release in theatres on June 5, 2026.

Also Read:Bobby Deol reveals how he was replaced in Jab We Met before its success: “I was heartbroken”