
Is Abhishek Bachchan A-List?
No — Abhishek Bachchan is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 2007
Guru critical acclaim peak
Lost A-list status in 2013
Dropped to B tier — Career downturn begins
Ranking Timeline
Refugee debut disappointment
Abhishek Bachchan made his acting debut with 'Refugee', which had moderate success but failed to establish him as a star. Being the son of legendary Amitabh Bachchan brought enormous pressure and comparisons.
Dhoom breakthrough success
His role as a cop in the action film 'Dhoom' became a major commercial success, finally giving Abhishek box office credibility. The franchise became one of Bollywood's biggest and established him as a bankable star.
Guru critical acclaim peak
Abhishek's performance in 'Guru', directed by Mani Ratnam, earned widespread critical acclaim and multiple awards. This period represented his peak, with a string of successful films and his marriage to Aishwarya Rai, another Bollywood superstar.
Paa and sports ventures
His role in 'Paa' alongside his father was critically praised, and he expanded into sports team ownership with the Pro Kabaddi League. These business ventures diversified his income beyond acting.
Career downturn begins
A series of box office failures led to a decline in Abhishek's film career, with fewer offers for leading roles. He remained visible through his sports franchises and family name, but his acting relevance decreased.
Selective film choices
Abhishek became more selective, focusing on ensemble casts and supporting roles rather than solo leads. Films like 'Manmarziyaan' showed his continued acting ability, though he was no longer a box office draw.
OTT platform success
Abhishek found renewed relevance on streaming platforms with series like 'Breathe: Into the Shadows' and films like 'The Big Bull'. The OTT space provided him with quality roles without the box office pressure.
Respected Bollywood presence
Abhishek Bachchan maintains a solid career through streaming platforms and selective film work, with his Bachchan family legacy ensuring continued relevance. While never reaching superstar status individually, he is a well-known, respected figure in Bollywood with successful business ventures and a stable career.
Last updated: February 25, 2026