In the past 2-3 years, the realm of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms has experienced an unprecedented surge, particularly following the closure of theatres amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. With audiences turning to digital streaming for their entertainment fix, OTT platforms have emerged as the new battleground for top-tier talent.
A Star-Studded Lineup
Renowned superstars like Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Sonakshi Sinha, and Samantha Ruth Prabhu are among the many A-listers flocking to India’s popular OTT platforms such as Netflix, Disney+ Hotstar, ZEE5, SonyLiv, and Jio Cinema, in search of compelling scripts and diverse roles.
The Price of Stardom
As the popularity of OTT platforms continues to soar, actors are commanding substantial fees for their appearances. Some superstars are pocketing hefty sums, with reports indicating earnings in crores through their OTT ventures.
Ajay Devgn: The Reigning OTT King
Bollywood stalwart Ajay Devgn made waves in 2022 with his OTT debut in Hotstar’s crime thriller series ‘Rudra: The Edge of Darkness’. Transitioning seamlessly from the silver screen to the digital domain, Devgn’s foray into OTT marked a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
A Record-Breaking Deal
Media outlets buzzed with reports of Ajay Devgn’s staggering paycheck, with the actor purportedly raking in a monumental Rs 125 crores for his role in the seven-episode series. At an eye-watering Rs 18 crore per episode, Devgn’s remuneration catapulted him to the summit as India’s highest-paid OTT actor.
The Man of the Moment
Manoj Bajpayee stands as another heavyweight in the OTT arena, commanding substantial fees for his appearances in web series and films. Notable for his portrayal of Srikant Tiwari in the acclaimed crime thriller ‘The Family Man’, Bajpayee reportedly pocketed a cool Rs 10 crores for his role in the series.
As the OTT landscape continues to evolve, driven by star-studded offerings and lucrative deals, it signifies a seismic shift in the entertainment industry. With superstars like Ajay Devgn and Manoj Bajpayee leading the charge, OTT platforms are rewriting the rules of engagement, promising a dynamic and rewarding future for both talent and audiences alike.
