Superstar Salman Khan is back on television as Bigg Boss 19 kicks off tonight (August 24). The reality show premieres first on JioHotstar, followed by a delayed telecast on Colors. This OTT-first approach marks a major shift for the long-running series, which has dominated primetime TV for nearly two decades. Bigg Boss has consistently been a massive revenue generator for Endemol, the production company behind it, and Salman’s association has only amplified its reach. Over the years, he has become the highest-paid celebrity on Indian television, often earning more than Rs 200 crore per season. But this year, things are different.
Reports suggest that Salman Khan has agreed to a significant pay cut for Bigg Boss 19. According to sources, he is charging Rs 10 crore per weekend for hosting the show. However, unlike previous seasons, Salman will only be hosting for a little over three months. As per a Times Now report, his hosting stint will last 15 weeks, which means his total earnings for Bigg Boss 19 will stand at Rs 150 crore.
This figure is notably lower than what he pocketed in previous seasons. Salman reportedly earned Rs 250 crore for Bigg Boss 18 and around Rs 200 crore for Bigg Boss 17. In comparison, his earnings this season are down by at least Rs 100 crore.
Also Read: Bigg Boss 18 winner Karan Veer Mehra trends on Internet ahead of Bigg Boss 19 premiere
The reason for this reduction is not merely a cut in per-weekend fees but also a shorter hosting tenure. After 15 weeks, Salman is expected to pass on hosting responsibilities to guest anchors. Names like Farah Khan and Karan Johar are being considered, both of whom have stepped in during earlier seasons when Salman was unavailable.
Despite the reduced earnings, Salman’s presence remains crucial to Bigg Boss. This season carries a politics-inspired theme, where audience opinion will directly influence the gameplay. With 18 contestants gearing up for entry into the house, excitement is already high. Salman recently shot the promotional teasers, unveiling glimpses of the redesigned house. Bigg Boss 19 begins streaming on JioHotstar on August 24, promising drama, entertainment, and a fresh twist in India’s most popular reality show.
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