Why mainstream actors are migrating towards OTT?

Delhi: After spending two decades as one of the most celebrated actors in Bollywood - Shahid Kapoor made his OTT debut with the conman series called ‘Farzi’. 

Just like his contemporaries, he also jumped at the opportunity to portray a charismatic character in a series. But is that the only reason why a hoard of mainstream actors is now migrating to the digital platform?

Rana Daggubati recently mentioned that Indian series on digital platforms give international exposure and global recognition to our Indian films. And if the CII Big Picture report is to be believed, then global audiences are increasingly welcoming Indian content on their screens.

But that advantage was always there ever since streaming platforms in India were getting popular. In 2013, the video streaming segment (SVoD) came to India with Ditto TV (Zee) and Sony LIV. But it gained momentum in 2015 when Hotstar acquired IPL live streaming rights. However back then not many established actors were moving towards OTT.

Superstar Amitabh Bachchan on TV

In the year 2000, when a wave of reality shows hit the prime time screens of India, the ‘Shahenshah’ of Bollywood, the superstar Amitabh Bachchan made his television debut. Back then the monopoly of television shows was Balaji Telefilms' letter ‘K’ family sagas. The soap operas were seen as a launching pad for the struggling actors for the big screen but here a big-screen superstar was stepping down onto the small screen. However, the public appearance opened new doors for Mr. Bachchan and paved a new way for Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan to follow. But these image-conscious stars had a lot on stake and were reluctant to play characters on the small screen. So what changed after a decade or so later?

Small canvas with unlimited scope

Primarily, films are largely seen as a director's medium while web series are known for its characters. While big banners got busy launching new stars and narratives that appealed to the mass audience, a digital world was getting created simultaneously which had complex characters and storylines. These plotlines were not restricted to three hours only and could captivate the audience. 

Saif Ali Khan was among the first few popular actors who joined the OTT league with Sacred Games. After spending almost three decades in the film industry, Khan starred as Sartaj Singh in Sacred Games along with Nawazuddin Siddiqui who played Mumbai underworld Don, Ganesh Gaitonde. 

The series also starred Pankaj Tirpathi as Guruji, which reminded people of Gangs of Wasseypur. Web series give the comfort of unfolding multiple layers of a character episode after episode.

The characters in web series are far more nuanced, complex, and diverse than the stereotypical roles offered in the mainstream industry, and hence, appealing to actors.

Changing audience preferences

One of the primary reasons why Bollywood actors are moving to web series is the changing preferences of the audience. With access to smartphones and increasing internet penetration, people are now seeking content that is easily accessible, innovative, and engaging. Web series provides them with all of these, and much more. Unlike traditional TV shows or movies, web series offer a vast range of genres and are not bound by censorship restrictions, allowing producers to create content that is more realistic, experimental, and challenging.

Breaking stereotypes with OTT

Actors like Bobby Deol, Aditya Roy Kapoor, and Emraan Hashmi who were stereotyped as romantic actors and ‘serial kisser’ can break out from their stereotyped image. Many mainstream actors were able to revive their careers and find challenging roles.

Actors such as Pratik Gandhi, Pankaj Tirpathi, Divyendu Sharma, and Jaideep Ahlawat have carved a niche for themselves and are commanding meaty roles in mainstream cinema. Many ace influencers such as Kusha Kapila, Ayush Mehra, Dolly Singh, and Jitendra Sharma were able to explore a whole new dimension of their acting abilities.

One of the most significant advantages of web series over traditional media is creative freedom. Directors and producers can explore various themes without worrying about censorship or clearing any regulatory boards or box-office results. Actors can participate in content that meets their expectations and needs, unlike other formats where commercial viability takes priority.

Revenue streams

OTT platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ Hotstar have deep pockets and can offer a lucrative source of alternative source of income to the actors. While not comparable to the remuneration they receive from movies, web series provides a steady stream of revenue as these series’ usually run for a few seasons. Moreover, the actors can benefit from revenue-sharing models which allow them to earn through the success of the series.

Big banners new launches

Production houses like YRF and Dharma Productions are known for introducing fresh talent in their movies, leaving veteran actors with fewer opportunities.

However, it is crucial to understand that the film industry is constantly evolving, and actors have to adapt to the changes to sustain their careers. While launching new stars may seem like a threat, it also opens up new avenues for experienced actors to explore different roles and showcase their talent. So what Shahid Kapoor did with Kabir Singh, he has to now shift to newer avenues to recreate similar magic.

To conclude, the rise of web series has disrupted the entertainment industry and opened new opportunities for actors. It allows them to break free from the limitations of traditional media and innovatively showcase their talent. With changing audience preferences, the opportunities provided by digital platforms, and creative freedom, Bollywood actors are moving towards web series, and we can expect more experimentation, diversity, and creativity in the content.