Actor and television host Anup Soni has reacted to Ajay Devgn taking over as the host of Crime Patrol, a show with which Soni has been closely associated for years. While Soni admitted that he did not have much to say about the change, he wished Devgn well and said he was confident that the Bollywood star would bring his own style and perspective to the long-running crime series.
The development marks a major change for Crime Patrol, with Devgn set to become the new face of the Sony Entertainment Television show. The actor has reportedly shot 15 episodes for the upcoming season, which is scheduled to premiere on August 31.
Soni, who became almost synonymous with Crime Patrol during his years as its presenter, responded to the casting change in a measured manner. Speaking about Devgn taking over, he said, “I don’t have much to say,” before adding that he wished the actor well.
He also expressed confidence that Devgn would bring something different to the programme. According to Soni, the Singham actor would have “his own style and perspective” while presenting the show.
Soni’s response is particularly significant because his association with Crime Patrol helped shape the show’s identity for a generation of viewers. His calm, serious narration became closely associated with the programme’s presentation of dramatised crime stories and public-awareness messages.
The transition nevertheless represents a significant change in the show’s approach. Devgn is one of Bollywood’s biggest stars, and his arrival gives the crime series a prominent film-industry face as it prepares to return with a new season.
A promotional video featuring Devgn has already been released. In the promo, the actor addresses the issue of rising crime and highlights the fact that perpetrators are often known to their victims. He also tells viewers that he will remain with them as the cases unfold.
Devgn’s involvement is also notable because it marks his television hosting debut. While Bollywood actors have frequently appeared on television as hosts, judges and presenters, Devgn has largely remained focused on films throughout his career.
Reports suggest that his initial stint on Crime Patrol will consist of 15 episodes, with the show’s makers expected to assess audience response before determining the future format.
For Soni, however, the change does not appear to have caused any visible resentment. Instead, his comments suggest that he views Devgn’s appointment as an opportunity for the show to acquire a different identity. His acknowledgement that Devgn will bring his own perspective also recognises that the new host is unlikely to simply replicate the presentation style that viewers associated with Soni.
Soni has had a long association with Crime Patrol, having hosted different versions of the show over the years. His understated delivery and serious demeanour became an important part of its appeal, particularly as the programme attempted to combine crime storytelling with messages about safety and awareness.
The show’s new season, titled Crime Patrol – Crime Ka Current Season, is scheduled to premiere on August 31 at 10:30 pm on Sony Entertainment Television and SonyLIV.
The change is likely to invite comparisons between the two hosts, particularly because Soni’s voice and presentation style have become deeply familiar to Crime Patrol viewers. Devgn, meanwhile, brings a very different screen persona shaped by decades of work in action, drama and crime films.