New Delhi: The curtains have risen on Bigg Boss OTT Season 3, with a surprising twist! While viewers were accustomed to Salman Khan’s charismatic presence as host, this season welcomes the veteran actor Anil Kapoor. Industry buzz suggests the change might be driven by finances, but the makers have a different story to tell.
The rumors swirling around the host switch center on budgets. Reportedly, Salman Khan commanded a hefty fee of Rs 12-15 crore per episode, a significant chunk of the show’s expenses. Anil Kapoor, on the other hand, is estimated to be charging a considerably lower amount – around Rs 3-4 crore per episode. This move is seen by some as a strategic cost-management decision by the producers.
However, Alok Jain, President of General Entertainment at Viacom18, the show’s creators, paints a different picture. He emphasizes innovation and fresh content as the driving force behind the decision. Jain highlights Anil Kapoor’s personality as a perfect fit for the show’s theme of offering audiences something “special” (Khaas).
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This strategic approach, he explains, aims to differentiate the OTT and television versions of Bigg Boss, catering to their unique audiences. He believes this, combined with the season’s theme and digital innovations, will keep the show captivating.
There’s no denying Salman Khan’s long-standing association with Bigg Boss and his role in attracting viewers. His presence on Bigg Boss OTT Season 2 is likely a key reason for its record-breaking success. The show garnered over 400 million video views and 4 billion minutes of watch time in just two weeks, attracting millions of viewers.
The OTT format itself has proven to be a powerhouse. Season 2, according to Ormax Media, became the most-watched Indian unscripted show with a viewership of 19.5 million.
While Salman Khan’s absence might raise questions, Anil Kapoor brings his own star power to the table. Alok Jain believes Kapoor’s charisma, energy, and audience connect will introduce a fresh perspective, potentially drawing in new viewers while retaining existing fans.
Advertisers seem unfazed by the host change. Bigg Boss, irrespective of the platform, remains a magnet for brands. While Salman Khan’s popularity is undeniable, Anil Kapoor’s star power also holds weight. The show has already secured sponsorships from several leading brands, showcasing advertiser confidence.
The shift from Karan Johar and Salman Khan to Anil Kapoor signifies Bigg Boss OTT’s embrace of experimentation. This change is likely to generate buzz and pique audience interest, especially with Kapoor’s appeal across age groups. Whether he can replicate the magic of his predecessors remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure – Bigg Boss OTT Season 3 promises to be an exciting new chapter in the show’s ever-evolving journey.
