After a three-year break from the big screen, Shah Rukh Khan is gearing up for his return with the action thriller King. Despite speculation over a possible delay, the film remains on schedule for a theatrical release on December 24, 2026.
Release Date Unchanged
Rumours in recent weeks suggested that King could be postponed to 2027. However, a report by Bollywood Hungama stated that the makers have no plans to shift the release date and are committed to a Christmas 2026 launch.
According to the report, postponing the film would have meant entering a crowded release calendar in early 2027. Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love & War is slated to release on January 21, followed by the beginning of Ramzan in early February. Other major titles, including Spirit on March 5 and Varanasi on April 7, are also expected to occupy the box office during that period.
Holiday Window Advantage
While King may have to share screens with several international releases during Christmas week, the timing is seen as strategically beneficial. Industry insiders quoted in the report believe that after the initial holiday rush, the film is unlikely to face major new competition until Republic Day, giving it an extended run if audience response remains strong.
Hollywood Films Crowd December
The Christmas season will witness stiff competition from Hollywood. Avengers: Doomsday and Dune: Part Three are both scheduled to arrive on December 18, just days before King. With Marvel films continuing to enjoy strong popularity in India, Avengers: Doomsday is expected to attract significant audiences.
At the same time, Dune: Part Three is also expected to perform well, particularly with its IMAX release and an established fan following among Indian moviegoers.
Another Big Clash Awaits
Adding to the crowded festive calendar, Jumanji: Open World, starring Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan, is scheduled to hit theatres on December 25, one day after King. The film is expected to compete for premium screens and holiday audiences.
Star-Studded Cast
Directed by Siddharth Anand, King features Shah Rukh Khan in the lead alongside Suhana Khan. The film also stars Abhishek Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Rani Mukerji, Jaideep Ahlawat, Arshad Warsi and Raghav Juyal in key roles.
With a high-profile cast and a festive release window, King is shaping up to be one of the biggest Bollywood releases of 2026.