New Delhi, Jan. 15 -- Bollywood stars of the 1990s may no longer be playing the hero, but they are still stealing the spotlight. The return of actors such as Akshaye Khanna and Bobby Deol, now cast as main antagonists in recent blockbusters, signals a shift in audience tastes and opens up space for older actors in pivotal, if no longer leading, roles.

Trade experts say their steady presence on OTT platforms has helped familiarise younger viewers with their work, many of whom are now discovering their earlier films, paving the way for renewed big-screen appearances.

"It is certainly a good idea to use these actors, who may not work as heroes anymore, as strong antagonists to add weight and heft to the films. There are several good but un...