As Bigg Boss 19 premieres on JioHotstar, all eyes are not just on the contestants but on the show’s iconic host, Salman Khan. Known for his commanding presence and staggering paychecks, Khan has reportedly taken a ₹100 crore pay cut this season. But this isn’t a story of diminished stardom—it’s a strategic recalibration in response to format shifts, hosting duration, and evolving audience platforms.
Key highlights from the Bigg Boss 19 pay saga
- Salman Khan will earn ₹150 crore for Bigg Boss 19, down from ₹250 crore in Season 18
- The pay cut is linked to reduced hosting duties—he’ll host only 15 weeks this season
- Bigg Boss 19 adopts an OTT-first strategy, premiering on JioHotstar before Colors TV
- Guest hosts like Farah Khan and Karan Johar may take over after Salman’s exit
- The show’s theme this year leans into politics and public opinion, adding a fresh twist
The numbers behind the cut
Salman Khan’s hosting fee has always been a headline magnet. For Bigg Boss 18, he reportedly earned ₹250 crore, hosting the full season. This year, however, he’s charging ₹10 crore per weekend, and will host only 15 weekends—bringing his total to ₹150 crore.
This marks a significant drop from previous seasons:
- Bigg Boss 17: ₹200 crore total, with ₹6 crore per episode
- Bigg Boss OTT 2: ₹96 crore for 8 weeks
- Bigg Boss 14: ₹20 crore per weekend
- Bigg Boss 4–6: ₹2.5 crore per episode
The ₹100 crore reduction isn’t due to waning popularity—it’s a result of shorter hosting duration and a shift in platform strategy. Salman’s reduced presence is part of a broader plan to diversify hosting and experiment with new formats.
Why the cut makes strategic sense
Shorter hosting window
Salman will host only the first 15 weeks of Bigg Boss 19. After that, guest hosts are expected to take over. This naturally reduces his total compensation.
OTT-first format
Bigg Boss 19 is premiering on JioHotstar, with a delayed telecast on Colors. This shift to digital-first broadcasting may have prompted budget recalibrations, especially as OTT platforms operate on different revenue models than traditional TV.
Guest host rotation
Names like Farah Khan and Karan Johar are being considered to take over hosting duties. Both have previously filled in for Salman, and their inclusion allows the show to maintain star power while managing costs.
Thematic shift
This season’s theme centers around politics and public opinion. With a more socially charged narrative, the show may rely less on Salman’s persona and more on audience engagement and contestant dynamics.
What this means for Salman Khan’s brand
Despite the pay cut, Salman remains the highest-paid television personality in India. His ₹150 crore paycheck still dwarfs most industry standards. More importantly, his strategic exit mid-season could open doors for other ventures, including film shoots and brand endorsements.
His association with Bigg Boss continues to be a cornerstone of the show’s identity. Even with reduced screen time, his presence in promos and premiere episodes ensures that the show kicks off with maximum buzz.
Bigg Boss 19: What to expect
- Platform: JioHotstar (streaming), Colors TV (delayed telecast)
- Theme: Politics and public opinion
- Contestants: 18 (identities yet to be revealed)
- Hosting timeline: Salman Khan for 15 weeks, followed by guest hosts
Final word
Salman Khan’s ₹100 crore pay cut isn’t a retreat—it’s a recalibration. With Bigg Boss 19 embracing new formats, themes, and hosting dynamics, the superstar’s strategic shift reflects the evolving landscape of Indian entertainment. Whether it’s ₹250 crore or ₹150 crore, Salman’s brand remains as bankable as ever.
Sources: Hindustan Times, WION, Times of India, Zee News, OneIndia
