Akshay Kumar to return to reality TV with the popular jackpot show Wheel of Fortune

According to Hindustan Times' industry sources, Sony has bought the Indian rights to Wheel of Fortune, one of the world's longest-running and most successful reality formats, and is planning a huge desi relaunch with high production standards, enormous rewards, and mass appeal, hosted by Akshay Kumar. The shoot begins in mid-January.

For more than 20 years, Kaun Banega Crorepati has dominated Indian television, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon. It transformed prime-time viewing habits, introduced knowledge-based entertainment into Indian homes, and shown that people value aspirational yet relatable formats. Sony's plan to bring back Wheel of Fortune is being viewed as a strategic attempt to replicate the enchantment in a new, fast-paced, and universally trusted format.

While KBC emphasises knowledge and life-changing jackpots, Wheel of Fortune features rapid winnings, word puzzles, luck, strategy, and instant pleasure.

According to insiders, Sony sought a pan-India superstar presenter who could connect with both big cities and small towns, and Akshay Kumar was the right choice. This will be Akshay Kumar's comeback to mainstream television hosting following previous successful stints, and the channel is counting heavily on his keen wit, easy relationship with contestants, and ability to keep the show exciting without overpowering it.

"A show like Wheel of Fortune requires a host who is approachable, kind, and lively. According to a production insider, Akshay ticks all the requirements.

All about Wheel of Fortune

Wheel of Fortune, which debuted in the United States in the 1970s, is one of the most iconic television formats of all time, having been copied in over 60 nations. The big spinning wheel, letter-guessing riddles, and high-stakes rounds have helped it become a global entertainment mainstay. Sony intends to keep the main international structure while injecting it with Indian flavour, such as Hindi and regional words, Indian cultural references, and special celebrity episodes.

The concert is expected to air on Sony TV and SonyLIV simultaneously, providing huge exposure across both television and digital platforms.

According to sources, Sony is developing a visually stunning set complete with a larger-than-life wheel, colourful lighting, and immersive sound design. Prize money, sponsor tie-ins, and Christmas specialities are all expected to be big draws. Similar to KBC, the show would purportedly focus on regular Indians with amazing experiences, with an emotional connection at the forefront.