After more than two decades in films, Samir Soni finds himself at a crossroads. In a recent post, he made it clear that he no longer wishes to remain on the sidelines. “I would rather quit acting than play a good brother, husband, father or any other supporting role. After waiting for over 25 years, it’s my time to play the lead now,” he wrote.The candid admission reflects a long-building restlessness. Despite being part of notable films like the recent Khuli Kitaab and sharing screen space with some of the industry’s biggest names, Samir says his journey has often felt constrained. “How long will I continue to do supporting roles?” he asks — a question that, by his own account, has lingered for years.One of his earliest setbacks came with his debut film, China Gate, where much of his role was cut during editing. “On the editing table, my whole role got chopped off,” he recalls. The experience, he says, set a pattern. “The worst part if anything happens on the editing table, the first thing that goes is the supporting character,” he says.The actor remembers a formative piece of advice from the late Om Puri that shaped his understanding of the craft. “He said, ‘We are supporting actors. Our job is to support the main protagonist and antagonist, to prop up the main leads.’” While he acknowledges this reality, he admits it can be frustrating. “There’s not that much importance given to the supporting cast. Their job is to make sure the main leads shine,” shares Samir.Over the years, he has worked alongside stalwarts, holding his own in scenes. Yet, he feels that hasn’t translated into substantial roles. “If indeed I’m that good to stand my own against big actors, how come no one thinks of backing me with a decent character which has more depth?” he asks. Even when he delivers, he adds, the final cut often sidelines his contribution. “You’re just there to be the catalyst to move them forward.”He sums up his career with a striking cricket analogy: “I’m like a 12th man who never gets to bat. I’ll be in every team but I never get to play a match.” Despite the frustration, Samir remains grateful for the opportunities he has had. “Not many people can boast of playing the son to Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, and years later to Pankaj Kapur and Dimple Kapadia,” he says.What he now seeks are layered, emotionally complex roles. “I like roles which have more angst, more layered, more complete,” he says, adding, “even non-lead parts can leave a lasting impact if written well.”
