The Indian audience has embraced the concept of seasons for shows with the OTT boom. However, the wait for subsequent seasons remains unpredictable. Popular shows like Mirzapur, Paatal Lok, and Mismatched have varying gaps between their seasons, leaving viewers wondering about the ideal interval and its impact on both actors and fans.
Mirzapur and Paatal Lok Return After Four Years
In 2024, the much-anticipated third seasons of Mirzapur and Paatal Lok will premiere after a four-year hiatus. The Family Man 3 also began filming three years after its last season. Meanwhile, Mismatched 3 is set to release two years after its second season. Some shows like Gullak have maintained a consistent gap of one-and-a-half years, while Aarya varied with gaps of one and two years between its three seasons.
Factors Influencing the Gap Between Seasons
Karan Anshuman, director of Mirzapur’s first season and currently shooting Rana Naidu 2, identifies three key factors that determine the gap between seasons: platform, makers, and audience. He explains that viewers typically prefer a six-month gap to maintain their connection with the show. However, the reality of filmmaking involves extensive time for writing, casting, preparation, shooting, and post-production. Platform scheduling also plays a role to ensure the show gains traction.
Platforms Play a Crucial Role
Akarsh Khurana, director of Mismatched 3, believes platforms significantly influence the timeline. He notes that the OTT industry is still experimenting to find the optimal schedule. After a season’s release, there is usually a wait to gauge its success before developing the next season. For Mismatched, the second season was developed even before the first season’s release. Khurana mentions that while popular shows like Mirzapur and The Family Man are easier to greenlight, factors like actors’ availability can delay production.
Actor Experiences with Season Gaps
Ishwak Singh, returning to Paatal Lok after four years, shares that the gap did not affect his process. He felt an immediate connection to his character upon returning to the set. In contrast, Sharib Hashmi of The Family Man 3 had to revisit previous seasons to get back into character, although his excitement for the show remained high.
Impact on Audience Connection
The question arises whether a longer gap affects the audience’s connection to a show. Singh believes that great content retains its appeal regardless of the gap. He argues that a longer interval can sometimes enhance the essence of the show, allowing actors to return with a fresh perspective. Singh asserts that content with resonance remains relevant, regardless of the wait.
Conclusion
The varying gaps between seasons of popular OTT shows like Mirzapur, Paatal Lok, and Mismatched highlight the complexities of production schedules. While viewers prefer shorter intervals, the realities of filmmaking, platform strategies, and actors’ availability often dictate the timeline. Despite these challenges, the loyalty of fan bases and the quality of content ensure that these shows continue to captivate audiences.