Shahrukh reveals the real reason he said ‘no’ to Slumdog Milliona

BOLLYWOOD star Shahrukh Khan has revealed the real reason why he turned down the chance to appear in the Oscar winner Slumdog Millionaire.

The actor was approached by Brit director Danny Boyle to reprise his role as host of India’s version of Who Wants to be a Millionaire on the big screen.

But Shahrukh refused and the role eventually went to fellow actor Anil Kapoor.

Appearing on popular BBC chatshow Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, Shahrukh revealed: “I was very keen for that film to be made. I didn’t do it because the host was a bit of a cheat, and I thought people might think I’d do the same thing.”

The actor also reveals why he refuses to kiss on screen, describing the experience as “awkward”.

The actor spoke to Jonathan Ross tonight ahead of the UK release of his forthcoming film ‘My Name is Khan’.

Directed by Karan Johar, the film brings Shahrukh and actress Kajol back on the big screen for the first time in eight years.

Currently on a tour of Britain promoting the film, Shahrukh has found himself having to defend himself following controversy in India over comments the actor made about Pakistani cricketers and the forthcoming Indian Premier League.

Supporters of the Hindu hardline party Shiv Sena attempted to disrupt showings of ‘My Name is Khan’ in Mumbai after Shahrukh expressed his disappointment at the snubbing of Pakistani cricketers in the forthcoming season.

Speaking to reporters in London he said: “I have no idea what I am supposed to apologise for. If I am in wrong I would like to apologise but someone needs to explain to me what is wrong.

“So many people’s futures rely on (My Name is Khan). I just request everybody to leave the film alone and deal with what I have said as an individual,” he added.