Ajay Devgn is set to take over as host of the long-running crime anthology series Crime Patrol, replacing Anup Soni, and has already completed shooting for 15 episodes of the upcoming season, according to reports.
The move marks Devgn’s debut as a television host. A promo featuring the actor has already been released ahead of the new season, which is scheduled to premiere on August 31.
Devgn has reportedly been brought on board for an initial run of 15 episodes. His continuation beyond those episodes is expected to depend on the response from viewers and the show’s television ratings.
The actor succeeds Anup Soni, who became closely associated with Crime Patrol during his long stint as its presenter. Soni’s narration and closing observations became one of the defining elements of the programme over the years.
In the newly released promo, Devgn speaks about crime and the fact that perpetrators are often known to their victims. He concludes the promo by assuring viewers of his presence on the show, signalling a new phase for the crime series.
Actor Rajesh Tailang, known for his work in Mirzapur and several films and web series, is also expected to host some episodes of the upcoming season.
The exact number of episodes featuring Tailang has not yet been finalised. According to reports, the arrangement could depend partly on the audience response to the episodes featuring Devgn.
Devgn’s association with a crime-based television programme also fits closely with his screen image. The actor has played law-enforcement characters in several films, most prominently police officer Bajirao Singham in Rohit Shetty’s Singham franchise.
Crime Patrol, which first aired in 2003, presents dramatised versions of real-life crimes and has had several presenters over its long television run. Soni, however, emerged as the face most closely identified with the programme.
The decision to bring in Devgn represents a significant change in the presentation of the series, with the makers turning to one of Hindi cinema’s leading stars for its new season.
The new season is expected to retain the programme’s focus on real-life crime cases while introducing Devgn as its principal presenter. With 15 episodes already filmed, the actor’s longer-term association with the show is likely to be determined after the new season begins airing.