TV actor Karan Patel, known for his powerful performances in shows like Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, has sparked a strong reaction online after calling out the current state of OTT content, branding much of it as “soft porn”. The actor also candidly revealed that he faced a six-year-long phase of professional drought where he didn’t get substantial work.
In a recent interview, Karan didn’t hold back as he expressed concern over the way Indian OTT platforms have evolved. “Most of the content today on digital platforms is nothing but soft porn under the garb of storytelling. The real stories are missing. Instead, it’s become a race to show who can push the envelope more — but not in a meaningful way,” he said.
The actor, who gained massive popularity playing Raman Bhalla in Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, confessed that after the show ended, he found himself lost in a sea of rejections and creative dissatisfaction. “I wasn’t getting the kind of work I wanted. I didn’t want to do projects just for the sake of staying visible. And honestly, the scripts that came my way didn’t excite me or had nothing new to offer,” he added.
Karan pointed out that the shift in the industry’s focus — from strong writing and compelling characters to sensationalism — played a role in his temporary exit from the scene. “It’s like the real talent is being sidelined. Actors who are actually good at their craft are sitting at home because the roles are going to people based on social media followers or shock value,” he lamented.
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However, the actor remains hopeful. “Everything works in cycles. I believe meaningful content will make a comeback. You can’t fool the audience for long — they crave good stories.”
Fans have lauded his honesty, with many taking to social media to support his bold statements. “Karan Patel said what needed to be said,” one user wrote. Another commented, “He’s right — OTT started with promise but has lost its way.”
Despite his criticism of the OTT trend, Karan is open to returning — but only if the content is right. “I’m not against OTT. I’m against what some of it has become. Give me a solid script, and I’ll give it my all.”
As conversations around quality storytelling versus sensationalism continue in the entertainment industry, voices like Karan Patel’s are shining a much-needed light on the evolving landscape — and the price actors sometimes pay to stick to their principles.
