Pranav Birje | Senior Correspondent
Beyond reshaping the OTT landscape, Applause Entertainment has carved a niche for nurturing fresh talent, turning them into the next big thing in the industry. Their commitment to craft over celebrity status has consistently brought critical and commercial hits, reshaping the careers of many budding actors by offering platforms that highlight their unique abilities.
Under the leadership of MD Sameer Nair, Applause stands out for its bold casting choices—choosing actors who may not have a famous lineage but possess the skill and passion to bring characters to life. This keen eye for talent and willingness to bet on newcomers has set new standards in how actors establish themselves, especially in the ever-expanding OTT space.
Take Black Warrant as an example—a gripping series that introduced audiences to new faces and unexpected performances. Anurag Thakur made a remarkable debut as Dhakkad Dahiya, captivating viewers with his authentic Haryanvi accent and raw energy. Zahan Kapoor also shone as Sunil Gupta, a rookie officer navigating the complexities of Tihar Jail, delivering a performance that revealed his depth and dedication to the role.
For Sidhant Gupta, Black Warrant was a game-changer, with his chilling portrayal of Charles Sobhraj leaving a lasting impression. His intense and nuanced depiction of the infamous serial killer earned him widespread praise and demonstrated his versatility as an actor.
Applause’s success with casting extends beyond Black Warrant. Pratik Gandhi’s breakout role as Harshad Mehta in Scam 1992 remains a testament to Applause’s knack for spotting talent. His transformation from a respected regional actor to a national sensation showcased his remarkable range. Similarly, Gagan Dev Riar’s portrayal of Abdul Karim Telgi in Scam 2003 brought to life the complexities of the character with authenticity, earning him critical acclaim. Surya Sharma, with his powerful performance as Rinku in Undekhi, further exemplified Applause’s ability to unearth actors who can dive into morally complex roles.
Applause Entertainment continues to champion new talent, proving that it’s not about star power but about finding and supporting artists who bring depth, authenticity, and innovation to the screen. With each project, Applause not only tells compelling stories but also helps actors make their mark in the entertainment world.
Applause Entertainment paves the way for Fresh Talent in the OTT Era – Zahan Kapoor, Siddhant Gupta, Anurag Thakur, Pratik Gandhi, Gagan Dev Riar, Surya Sharma
