Actor and television host Shekhar Suman is returning to the late-night talk show format with ‘Shekhar Tonite’, but this time, he says the intention is very different from the fast-paced content culture dominating digital platforms today. Known for projects like ‘Dekh Bhai Dekh’, ‘Utsav’ and ‘Heartless’, Suman explained that his new show is designed to slow things down and focus on thoughtful conversations instead of sensational headlines and manufactured drama.Talking about the format with Mid-Day, he said, “No rapid fire, no planted controversies. Think of it as the opposite of doomscrolling. It’s slow content for a fast world.”The actor, who became a household name with the iconic late-night show ‘Movers & Shakers’ in 1997, believes ‘Shekhar Tonite’ reflects a more conscious and mature approach to commentary and humour. “Movers & Shakers was instinct. Shekhar Tonite is intent,” Suman shared while discussing the philosophy behind the show.The programme combines satire, wit and observations on social and political developments, while avoiding the aggressive debate culture commonly seen across digital media today. Unlike celebrity chat shows built around viral moments and controversy-driven segments, Shekhar insists his platform has no interest in creating uncomfortable or sensational content just for clicks.According to him, the idea is to create space for genuine dialogue and civilised criticism. The host noted that discussing public issues responsibly is part of social accountability and should not automatically be viewed as negativity or political targeting.“There is a misconception that the show hits out at people. For me, every person has a social responsibility. I have equal respect for our Prime Minister [Narendra Modi] and for Rahul Gandhi. If I elect someone and they are not able to deliver, I have the right to critique them, but I am not criticising them,” he explained.Referring to legendary cartoonist RK Laxman’s famous character, Suman added, “I am like RK Laxman’s The Common Man, who wants to express himself. I’m raising my voice against what is happening in society, but doing so in the most civilised manner.”
Why Shekhar Suman chose YouTube instead of OTT?
The veteran actor also revealed why he decided to stream the show on his own YouTube channel instead of partnering with an OTT platform.“Freedom. On my own channel, there is no algorithm telling me to shorten it or make it trend in eight seconds. I want to make conversation for people. If OTT respects that, we’ll talk,” he said.The first episode of ‘Shekhar Tonite’ featured Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, followed by actor Bobby Deol of ‘Animal’ and ‘Soldier’ fame. Upcoming guests are expected to include Manoj Bajpayee, Farah Khan and Ali Fazal.