To be fair, Housefull 5 was panned not because of bad acting, but because it felt like a lazy, cash driven project. There was no soul just stars showing up for a paycheck.

Even Abhishek, once celebrated for his intense performances in Yuva, Guru, and Sarkar, looked out of place.

But things might be turning around.

Abhishek is now set to appear in King, Shah Rukh Khan's much-anticipated film, where he'll play a major negative role. Industry insiders claim his character will be pivotal, not just a typical side villain.

Housefull 5 BO: Last Big Day to Avoid Flop Verdict?

That's promising. Abhishek has proven himself in grey roles before. His portrayal of Lallan Singh in Yuva and Beera in Raavan still resonate. If King gives him the right material, it could mark the rebirth of his career.

Audiences today love complex villains, sometimes more than heroes. If Abhishek delivers, he may silence critics like KRK and regain the credibility he deserves.