Secret behind Aamir Khan's 'Special Thanks' in O'Romeo revealed: Not a cameo, but a crucial killing
O'Romeo hits at the box office as Vishal Bhardwaj thanks Aamir Khan for a key plot twist: a lawyer's death that sparks the lead romance. Khan’s 2026 outlook remains strong with Lahore 1947.
Last Updated: 01.11 PM, Feb 19, 2026
Vishal Bhardwaj's characteristic grim storytelling and positive word of mouth have kept Shahid Kapoor's newest film, O'Romeo, firmly planted in the top spot at the box office. Audiences have been captivated by the film's brutal style and love overtones, but one element in the opening credits—a "Special Thanks" to Aamir Khan—has ignited considerable curiosity.
Did Aamir Khan make a secret cameo in O'Romeo?
Khan did not make an appearance, despite rumours of a secret cameo. On the contrary, he had no technical skills and only contributed creatively to the film, shaping a crucial scene.
In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Bhardwaj explained why Khan received a special mention. When the superstar showed interest in the story, Bhardwaj said, they collaborated during the script-writing phase.
What specific plot twist did Aamir Khan propose in O'Romeo?
“Aamir wanted to hear the script of O'Romeo. And when he heard it, he gave me this idea that someone should be killed at a crucial point in the film,” Bhardwaj shared.
The proposal went beyond merely increasing the level of violence; it sought to alter the protagonists' emotional trajectories. According to Bhardwaj, Khan was the mastermind of the particular scene in which Resh Lamba's character, lawyer Anjum Ansari, is murdered in a restaurant.
How did this scene change the dynamic between Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri?
"Killing the lawyer Anjum Ansari (Resh Lamba) in the restaurant was his idea. This is the reason why I thanked him. This suggestion changed so many things for me. Because from there, the protagonist, Ustara (Shahid Kapoor), gets attracted towards the girl (Afshan, played by Triptii Dimri). He realises, ‘Oh my God, she can do anything to exact revenge.' So, he starts taking her seriously and even nurses her back to health after she gets injured," as the filmmaker puts it.
This structural shift was the impetus Bhardwaj needed for Ustara and Afshan's romance to feel genuine, in his view. The filmmaker stressed that the relationship might not have progressed as intensely if this turning point hadn't occurred.
Why does Vishal Bhardwaj feel such deep gratitude toward Aamir Khan?
“So, the whole love story starts from there. That was a big plot point for me. And that's why I wanted to thank Aamir from the bottom of my heart,” Bhardwaj added.
O'Romeo is still doing well, having recently surpassed the ₹67 crore mark on a global scale. In addition to Nana Patekar, Avinash Tiwary, and Triptii Dimri, the film's ensemble cast also includes Vikrant Massey, Tamannaah Bhatia, and Disha Patani. Sajid Nadiadwala produced the film.
What were Aamir Khan's recent performances?
Ever since his 2025 hit Sitaare Zameen Par made over ₹165 crore in India, Khan has been unstoppable in the industry. He also featured Rajinikanth's Coolie in a thrilling cameo.
The post-production of Rajkumar Santoshi's Lahore 1947 is the superstar's current priority. The partition-era drama stars Sunny Deol and Preity Zinta, with Khan scheduled to make a lengthy cameo. Aamir Khan Productions, his production banner, recently announced that Lahore 1947 will be released in theatres on August 13, 2026.
Moreover, the banner's May 1 film, Ek Din, will feature Junaid Khan and South star Sai Pallavi in their much-awaited Hindi debut.
O'Romeo FAQs:
Q: Does Aamir Khan have a cameo in Shahid Kapoor’s O’Romeo?
A: No, Aamir Khan does not appear on screen in O’Romeo. Despite the "Special Thanks" in the opening credits and fan speculation about a hidden appearance, his involvement was entirely behind the scenes as a creative consultant during the script-writing stage.
Q: How much has O’Romeo collected at the box office?
A: As of late February 2026, O’Romeo has performed steadily, crossing the ₹67 crore mark at the global box office. Domestically, the film has earned approximately ₹46.75 crore nett, benefiting from positive word-of-mouth and a strong opening weekend.
Q: When is Aamir Khan’s next movie releasing?
A: Aamir Khan is currently producing and starring in an extended cameo in Lahore 1947, directed by Rajkumar Santoshi. The film is officially scheduled to release on August 13, 2026, to coincide with the Independence Day weekend.