Bigg Boss 19 format change: Major updates on participants

Bigg Boss 19 shifts to a celebrity-only format, excluding social media influencers. Salman Khan hosts the longest season yet, running from July 2025 to January 2026. No Bigg Boss OTT this year.

Bigg Boss

Bigg Boss

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The excitement for Bigg Boss 19 is steadily building, and this season promises a major shake-up in its format. 

According to several reports, the upcoming instalment of the popular reality show will feature a significant shift in its contestant lineup, moving away from social media influencers and returning to its roots with a celebrity-only format.

Also Read: Salman Khan to team up with Kabir Khan again but not for Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2!

No Influencers or YouTubers This Season

In a clear departure from the format followed in recent years, Bigg Boss 19 will reportedly not include YouTubers or digital influencers. Previous seasons saw the successful integration of digital creators like Elvish Yadav, Abhishek Malhan (Fukra Insaan), Manisha Rani, and Rajat Dalal, who contributed to the show’s appeal among younger audiences. Despite their popularity and strong fan base, the show's producers are aiming to bring back the original essence of the franchise by focusing exclusively on established personalities from television and Bollywood.

A report by Telly Reporter confirmed, “Unlike previous seasons, this time, the makers have decided not to approach YouTubers for the reality show.” The move has been described as an effort to add more traditional glamour to the show and generate high-voltage drama through known celebrities.

Casting Underway for TV and Film Celebrities

The casting process for Bigg Boss 19 is already in progress, with the production team reportedly reaching out to well-known faces from the television and film industries. While the official contestant list has not yet been announced, fans are eagerly speculating about which celebrities will enter the iconic house this season.

Longest Season in Bigg Boss History

Another major update is the extended runtime of Bigg Boss 19. According to Pinkvilla and other sources, the show is set to run for approximately 5.5 to 6 months, from late July 2025 to January 2026, making it the longest season in the franchise's history. The premiere date is expected to be around July 19 or July 30, 2025.

Salman Khan Returns as Host

Despite previous rumours suggesting otherwise, Salman Khan will continue as the host for his 16th consecutive season. His strong connection with audiences, especially during the “Weekend Ka Vaar” episodes, remains a cornerstone of the show’s popularity. He is expected to shoot the promotional material for the new season in June 2025.

No Bigg Boss OTT in 2025

In another major shift, the digital edition of the show, Bigg Boss OTT, has reportedly been cancelled for this year. This move is seen as a strategic decision by the makers to avoid viewer fatigue and focus all attention on the main television edition.

Also Read: ‘Bade Achhe Lagte Hain’ New season set to launch soon, deets inside

Channel Change Possibility

There is ongoing speculation about a possible change in the show's broadcasting platform. While Bigg Boss has been traditionally aired on Colors, reports hint at a potential shift back to Sony TV amid a rumoured rift between the channel and the producers, Banijay Asia. However, no official confirmation has been made so far.

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