Two Much With Kajol and Twinkle Review: Salman and Aamir stay guarded while spilling stories without fireworks or drama

Aamir goes the emotional route: regrets about not spending enough time with his kids when they were little, alongside a gentle reminder that he’s still on good terms with ex-wives Reena and Kiran. Sweet, yes. Shocking, no.

Where the show actually earns its stripes is Twinkle Khanna’s unflinching approach. She doesn’t hesitate to push, probe, or tease, often with that straight-faced humour she’s known for. Kajol complements her well, though you can sense Twinkle driving the engine while Kajol rides shotgun. Together they coax Aamir and Salman into revisiting the circus that was ‘Andaz Apna Apna.’

Aamir narrates his misery at Salman’s casual work ethic, and Salman, true to form, doesn’t bother denying it. They even discover—rather late in life—that despite attending the same school, they never met as kids. It’s personal, it’s funny in bits, but let’s not kid ourselves: this isn’t new material. If you’ve followed Bollywood for long enough, you’ve already heard most of these tidbits in one form or another.

The advantage Kajol and Twinkle have is proximity. They belong to the same industry clique as their guests, which gives them license to ask questions journalists would hesitate to pose. And yes, they take those liberties. Salman even confesses he’s had relationships that lasted seven or eight years but ended because of his own failings. (Self-awareness in Bollywood?) Yet, for every inch the hosts push, the guests retreat into safe answers. And just when you feel the episode might finally loosen its collar, the flow is interrupted by its game format.

Really, who decided this was a good idea? One moment you’re listening to Salman talk about heartbreak, and the next he’s being nudged into some absurd game that feels better suited to a family picnic. The games don’t ruin the show, but they certainly cheapen it.

Also read: Salman Khan on failed past relationships: "I am the one to blame but nahi jama toh nahi jama"

So where does that leave us? ‘Two Much With Kajol and Twinkle’ doesn’t topple the chat-show universe, nor does it embarrass itself. It lands somewhere in the middle—an amiable, glossy hour that coasts almost entirely on the chemistry of its hosts and the stature of its guests. The problem is, guarded stars make for safe television, and safe television rarely explodes.

For Kajol and Twinkle, this first episode was a tough test. They passed, yes, but just barely. The hope now is that future guests come with their shields lowered, because with hosts this fiery, it would be a pity if all we ever get are reheated anecdotes and polite laughter. For now, let’s call it what it is: a lukewarm and tepid start.