📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Bollywood Hungama
Entertainment
TV Actors Claim 18‑Hour Shifts and 90‑Day Pay Delays, Lead Stars Accused of Blackmail
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 22 Jul 2026, 01:48 PM
👁 6
Actor Sudhir Pandey has alleged that leading television stars pressure networks, while supporting actors endure long hours and delayed payments.
Sudhir Pandey, a veteran actor known for his roles in popular serials, recently voiced concerns about the working conditions in the Indian television industry. He claimed that top‑tier actors use their influence to pressure networks into making unfavorable deals for themselves.
According to Pandey, supporting actors are subjected to grueling schedules, often working 18‑hour shifts with little rest. He added that these actors receive their salaries only after a 90‑day delay, a practice he says is widespread.
The actor’s statements came during a media interview where he highlighted the disparity between the treatment of lead and supporting cast. He urged industry bodies to investigate and reform the payment and working hour norms.
So far, no official response has been issued by television networks or the actors’ guilds. Industry insiders suggest that the issue may prompt a review of contractual agreements and labor standards in the sector.
According to Pandey, supporting actors are subjected to grueling schedules, often working 18‑hour shifts with little rest. He added that these actors receive their salaries only after a 90‑day delay, a practice he says is widespread.
The actor’s statements came during a media interview where he highlighted the disparity between the treatment of lead and supporting cast. He urged industry bodies to investigate and reform the payment and working hour norms.
So far, no official response has been issued by television networks or the actors’ guilds. Industry insiders suggest that the issue may prompt a review of contractual agreements and labor standards in the sector.