Irani began his acting career in theatre and moved to film in 2000. Irani gained attention for his role in the 2003 comedy Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. He later appeared in Lage Raho Munna Bhai for which he received several IIFA award nominations and in 3 Idiots opposite Aamir Khan which earned him a Filmfare Award and a Star Screen Award for Best Actor in a Villainous Role. He is the host of Bollywood Ka Boss.