21 June,2026 07:57 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
A poster of India`s Got Latent 2 (Pic/YouTube)
The return of India's Got Latent Season 2 has sparked mixed reactions online, with one particular joke drawing criticism from viewers and reigniting debates about the show's content. While the premiere episode generated significant buzz thanks to celebrity guests Alia Bhatt and Sharvari, not all viewers were impressed with the humour on display.
A segment from the episode recently went viral after a contestant made a joke referencing the infamous Epstein Island scandal. The remark was met with laughter from some members of the panel, but many social media users felt the joke crossed a line and was in poor taste. Soon after clips of the episode surfaced online, viewers began sharing their reactions across platforms, with several questioning the creative direction of the show.
The criticism did not stop at the controversial joke. A section of the audience also claimed that the new season feels overly rehearsed and scripted compared to the spontaneous nature that initially made India's Got Latent popular. Some viewers argued that the interactions appeared staged, while others compared the reality-comedy show to Bigg Boss, suggesting that the latest season prioritises dramatic moments over authentic entertainment.
Social media platforms were flooded with comments from fans expressing disappointment. Several users stated that the controversial humour felt forced rather than funny, while others questioned whether the show was trying too hard to create viral moments. The criticism comes at a time when India's Got Latent is already under close public scrutiny following multiple controversies associated with its previous season.
Despite the backlash, the premiere episode also received support from loyal fans who appreciated the return of Samay Raina and the show's signature blend of comedy and unpredictability. Many viewers defended the format, arguing that controversial jokes have always been a part of stand-up and roast culture. Others maintained that isolated moments should not define an entire season.
The launch of Season 2 marked a major milestone for the franchise, with Alia Bhatt and Sharvari joining the premiere episode as special guests. Their presence helped generate significant attention online and contributed to the episode trending across social media platforms shortly after its release.
As discussions continue, the controversy highlights the challenges comedy shows face in balancing edgy humour with audience sensitivities. Whether the backlash affects the long-term reception of India's Got Latent Season 2 remains to be seen, but the debate has undoubtedly kept the show at the centre of online conversations.
With more episodes lined up, viewers will be watching closely to see how the series navigates criticism while maintaining the irreverent style that helped it build a dedicated fanbase in the first place.
