When Shah Rukh Khan became Karan Johar’s first source of unconditional support, director revealed 'He used to have a lot of open chats with me'

Karan Johar and Shah Rukh Khan share one of the closest friendships in Bollywood. Over the years, they’ve worked together on many films, but their bond goes far beyond professional commitments. Their relationship is more like family, and both often share stories about their long-standing friendship. A similar moment came up when KJo recalled the actor's support.In a chat with Nikhil Taneja on his show Be A Man, Yaar!, Karan shared some heartfelt memories from his friendship with Shah Rukh. The filmmaker revealed how SRK holds a very special place in his life, as he was the first person to truly accept him without judgment.Karan recalled how he once opened up about his feminine side, and SRK embraced it with warmth and respect, never letting any bias come in the way. For Karan, this support from the superstar became one of the strongest pillars of their bond.KJo said, “When I grew older, people got a little quieter about it, but I could tell that there was a chitter-chatter around maybe the way I walked, or spoke or things. I remember Shah Rukh was the first man who did not make me feel any less. I feel like he accepted what in those days was considered being a pansy, or being effeminate or walking funny and he was just so cool about it, about everything.”Karan further revealed that Shah Rukh Khan was even more open and accepting about his sexuality than his own parents. He credited this to SRK’s progressive upbringing, which allowed him to embrace people without judgment. For Karan, this quality in Shah Rukh became a defining part of their deep and lifelong bond.Karan Johar concluded by saying that once he opened up about his sexuality to the 'Main Hoon Na', actor their bond grew even deeper. They began having honest and candid conversations, where SRK never mocked him but instead listened and understood his perspective. For Karan, this constant sense of support from SRK became one of the most meaningful aspects of their friendship.Karan stated, “He used to have a lot of open chats with me, and I felt like even when I had to say the biggest thing about my personality and sexuality, I spoke to him first. I felt like he would be that one influence or that one sense of support that even he hasn’t realised that he has been to me. So yes, it was first Shah Rukh and it still remains Shah Rukh.”In an old interview with Mid-Day, Johar recalled a moment in his bond with Shah Rukh. He shared how, during the making of 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai', he was threatened by an underworld don to delay the film’s release. At that tough time, SRK stood firm by his side, assuring Karan that he wouldn’t let anything stop the release. He even went as far as saying he would take a bullet if needed, proving the depth of their friendship.