The changing faces on TV

Imagine a pivotal character in shows like Modern Family or Breaking Bad replaced in a flash? The idea seems preposterous. But our desi shows don’t mind making any such changes. Kavita Awaasthi explores the causes and effects.

Imagine a pivotal character in a popular American show like Modern Family or Breaking Bad replaced in a flash?

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The idea seems preposterous. But our

desi

shows don’t mind making any such changes.

In the past, audience’s favourite lead characters such as Asad (Qubool Hai), Manav (Pavitra Rishta), Mihir (Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi), which have been played by popular names, have seen newer faces playing them after a sudden change of events.

While a replacement might seem like an overnight decision, it is usually not.

Channels would never want their lead actors to quit a show, especially when it’s doing well. However, common problems like date issues, disagreement on fee hike and ego clashes result in such sweeping decisions on the part of the channel.

Sometimes, the change in the lead character causes a severe setback to the show.

When Barun Sobti quit Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon, the channel took the show off air. Although a TV biggie like Sushant Singh Rajput was replaced by an equally popular Hiten Tejwani in Pavitra Rishta, the ratings of the show never reached its past highs.

On the flip side, getting into the shoes of the outing actor is not a cakewalk for the new entrant.

Two new faces in Balika Vadhu — Sargun Mehta, who replaced Sriti Jha, and Toral Rasputra, who came as a substitute for Pratyusha Banerjee — had to make efforts to fit into their new team, which had been working together as a family for five years.

The jury is out on the pros and cons of replacing actors. It takes a lot of time to reconnect with the character, and in today’s competitive times, it might mean loss of ratings.