A single event in Riyadh managed to merge the worlds of Bollywood, Hollywood, and K-drama, proving Shah Rukh Khan‘s appeal is a truly global phenomenon.
The scene was the Joy Awards 2026 in Riyadh, a gathering designed to celebrate global entertainment icons. Among a star-studded guest list featuring names like Millie Bobby Brown and Oscar Isaac, it was Bollywood’s Shah Rukh Khan who created the most resonant viral moments of the night. In a series of events that swept across social media, Khan was photographed alongside pop superstar Katy Perry and posed with ‘Squid Game’ sensation Lee Jung-jae, cementing his status as an international celebrity who bridges cultural divides.
Beyond the glamorous photos, a brief, nuanced interaction with a fan on stage sparked a wider conversation about fame and protocol, showing that every move a star of his magnitude makes is part of a larger story.
The Viral Photos That United Fanbases
The images that quickly flooded Twitter, Instagram, and Threads told a simple but powerful story of cross-cultural admiration. In one photo, Shah Rukh Khan stands on the purple carpet, sharing a warm smile with Katy Perry. Perry performed at the event, while Khan was there as a presenter, making their meeting a natural convergence of two entertainment giants.
The other viral snapshot featured Khan alongside South Korean actor Lee Jung-jae, globally renowned for his leading role in the Netflix phenomenon “Squid Game”. The two actors appeared cordial and jovial, a meeting that delighted fans of both Asian cinema and global streaming hits. This was not their first interaction; last October, Lee Jung-jae had shared a selfie with Khan on his Instagram, captioning it, “Honoured to be with a respected icon”. Their reunion at the Joy Awards served as a continuation of that mutual respect, visually representing the growing synergy between Bollywood and the Korean entertainment industry.
The On-Stage Moment That Sparked a Debate
While the photos were universally celebrated, another moment from the awards ceremony ignited a spirited online discussion. A short video clip from the event went viral on Threads and other platforms, showing a brief interaction as Khan presented an award.
In the video, a person standing next to Khan on stage attempts to take a selfie with him. Khan, smiling calmly, gently takes the phone, gestures toward the official camera positioned in front of them, and then returns the phone. Moments later, another individual attempts a similar selfie, and Khan again signals toward the main camera before proceeding with the trophy presentation.
This snippet was interpreted in two starkly different ways:
- A Question of Protocol: Many fans and observers rushed to Khan’s defense, arguing he was ensuring the formal award moment was properly captured by professional photographers. They noted that official ceremonies often have strict guidelines for on-stage behavior to guarantee high-quality photos for media distribution. Comments on social media reflected this view, with users stating, “He is following protocol” and explaining that he was directing the awardees to face the official cameraperson for a clearer picture that included the trophy.
- A Moment Misinterpreted: A smaller section of viewers initially perceived the action as dismissive, sparking a debate about celebrity-fan interactions. However, the prevailing narrative online emphasized context—that in high-security, tightly choreographed international events, such guidance is standard and not a reflection of the star’s personal attitude.
A Global Icon in a Connected World
The Joy Awards 2026 served as a perfect snapshot of Shah Rukh Khan’s current career phase: that of a beloved Indian superstar who commands equal reverence on the world stage. His attendance alongside the biggest names from Hollywood and Korean entertainment is a testament to his enduring and expanding global footprint.
Following the event, Khan himself took to social media to praise the spectacle, thanking Turki Alalshikh, chairperson of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, and calling the function “spectacular and very grand”. His upcoming film, King, directed by Siddharth Anand, is one of the most anticipated Bollywood releases of 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the main celebrities with Shah Rukh Khan at the Joy Awards?
Shah Rukh Khan was photographed with pop icon Katy Perry and South Korean superstar Lee Jung-jae from “Squid Game.” The event’s guest list also included Millie Bobby Brown, Oscar Isaac, and Lee Byung-hun.
What was the controversy about the fan selfie video?
A video showed Khan gently taking a phone from someone trying to take a selfie with him on stage and pointing them toward the official camera. While some initially questioned the action, most defenders argued he was correctly following event protocol to ensure professional photos were taken.
Had Lee Jung-jae and Shah Rukh Khan met before?
Yes. In October of last year, Lee Jung-jae shared a selfie with Shah Rukh Khan on Instagram, expressing he was “honoured” to meet him. Their meeting at the Joy Awards was a reunion.
What is Shah Rukh Khan’s next project?
Khan is set to star in the upcoming film King, directed by Siddharth Anand. The film also features his daughter Suhana Khan, along with Deepika Padukone and Abhishek Bachchan.
The Takeaway
The events at the Joy Awards 2026 did more than just generate viral content. They highlighted how true star power today is measured by the ability to connect across different film industries and with diverse global audiences. From creating joyful, shareable moments with international peers to navigating the complex expectations of fame with grace, Shah Rukh Khan demonstrated why, after decades at the top, he remains not just the King of Bollywood, but a respected icon on the world’s stage.
What do you think defines a global superstar in today’s interconnected entertainment landscape? Is it box office numbers, social media influence, or the ability to transcend cultural barriers? The conversation around Khan’s latest international appearance suggests it might be a blend of all three.
