Ed Sheeran Opens Up About His Bollywood Debut In Shah Rukh Khan’s 'King'

British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran is set to make his Bollywood playback debut with Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film King. The singer recently revealed how an unexpected visit to the superstar’s Mumbai residence, Mannat, eventually led to his association with the film and its first released track, ‘Tu Mil Jaaye’.

Sharing a behind-the-scenes video from the song’s recording session on social media, Sheeran recalled how Shah Rukh had first suggested that they collaborate on a song for one of his films when they initially met. Over the years, the two developed a friendship, which eventually paved the way for their musical collaboration.

The opportunity came during Sheeran’s recent visit to India, when he went to Mannat to request Shah Rukh to feature in the music video of ‘Sapphire’, his 2025 collaboration with singer Arijit Singh. During the visit, Shah Rukh introduced him to composer duo Sachin-Jigar, who are working on the music for King.

Recounting the experience, Sheeran revealed that the introduction led to an impromptu recording session, with him writing and recording his verse for ‘Tu Mil Jaaye’ that very night.

In his Instagram post, Sheeran shared, “When I first met Shah Rukh, he said I must make a song to be in his next movie and also be my first Bollywood song.” He also expressed his excitement about collaborating with Arijit Singh, adding that having some of his favourite people on one project made the experience special.

Shah Rukh Khan also acknowledged the collaboration by resharing Sheeran’s video and thanking him for contributing to the track, particularly appreciating his effort on the Hindi portions.

‘Tu Mil Jaaye’ was released on November 2, coinciding with Shah Rukh Khan’s 61st birthday. The track brings together vocals by Ed Sheeran, Arijit Singh and Madhubanti Bagchi, with music composed by Sachin-Jigar. Sheeran has contributed an English rap verse, while the song blends Indian film music with international pop influences.

The track has also registered a significant digital milestone, garnering 36.3 million views on YouTube within its first 24 hours, making it the most-watched Indian film song on the platform in a single day, according to the report.

Directed by Siddharth Anand, King also stars Deepika Padukone, Suhana Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji and Arshad Warsi, among others. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on December 24, 2026.