Pankaj Tripathi Doesn't Believe His Acting Has a Type: 'Criminal Justice' Season 4 Interview

Acclaimed Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi is back once again in the popular legal drama series Criminal Justice: A Family Matter, reprising his role as the unconventional and deeply empathetic lawyer Madhav Mishra. With the release of Season 4, Tripathi opens up about the evolution of his character, the series’ strong emotional resonance, and his take on avoiding being typecast as an actor.

Tripathi, known for his layered performances in both commercial and indie films, believes that his acting doesn't fall into a particular “type.” While many associate him with earthy, morally complex characters, he strongly feels that his choices and performances go beyond such narrow definitions. “I don’t believe my acting has a type,” he said. “I do what the role demands and what the story requires. If I start thinking I’m only good at a certain kind of character, I limit myself, and that’s not what acting is about.”

Criminal Justice: A Family Matter has been one of Tripathi’s most well-received projects. The character of Madhav Mishra, a small-time lawyer with a sharp mind and an unshakable moral compass, has become iconic among OTT audiences. In the new season, Mishra takes on a heart-wrenching case involving a minor accused of murdering his stepfather. The case is layered with complex family dynamics, emotional trauma, and moral ambiguity — themes that Tripathi finds both challenging and rewarding to portray.

Talking about returning to the role, Tripathi said it felt like revisiting an old friend. “Playing Madhav Mishra again is like coming home. With each season, I try to add a new dimension to him. This time, he’s not just a lawyer — he’s a guide, a mentor, and a moral anchor for a young boy who’s lost his way,” he explained.

Despite the growing popularity of his character, Tripathi remains humble and grounded. He credits the series' success to strong writing and a team that cares deeply about storytelling. “The reason Criminal Justice connects so well with the audience is because it taps into real human emotions. It’s not just about legal jargon or courtroom drama — it’s about people, relationships, justice, and what’s right and wrong in the eyes of the law and the heart.”

When asked about being typecast — often seen in roles that portray small-town wisdom or morally grey personas — Tripathi shrugged off the concern. “I choose roles that speak to me. Whether it’s a gangster, a father, a cook, or a lawyer, I see each character as a new world to explore. Audiences may think of me in a certain way, but I don’t carry that baggage when I act.”

Tripathi also highlighted how OTT platforms have allowed actors like him to flourish without the traditional constraints of stardom. “Digital platforms have opened doors for stories that were never told before. Actors like me get space to perform, not just appear,” he added.

With Season 4 of Criminal Justice currently streaming, Pankaj Tripathi continues to win hearts by blending sincerity, versatility, and subtle brilliance. As he redefines what it means to be a lead actor in today's evolving entertainment landscape, one thing remains clear: Tripathi’s craft cannot be boxed into a single type — and that's precisely what makes him exceptional.