The television landscape is abuzz with the news of Bollywood powerhouse Ajay Devgn taking the reins as the new host of the long-running crime reality series, Crime Patrol. Following the announcement earlier this week, Anup Soni, who became synonymous with the show during his remarkable 11-year stint, has now publicly shared his thoughts on the transition.
Anup Soni Reacts to Crime Patrol Host Change
Speaking exclusively to Variety India, Anup Soni, who hosted ‘Crime Patrol’ from 2010 to 2021, offered a measured yet heartfelt response to the major hosting change. “I don’t have much to say on this,” Soni stated, reflecting on his deep connection with the show. “I have had a long and very special association with ‘Crime Patrol,’ and I am grateful for all the love and affection the audience has given me over the years.”
Soni further extended his best wishes to Ajay Devgn, with whom he shares a professional history, having collaborated on films like Prakash Jha’s Gangaajal and Apaharan. “I am a big fan of Ajay Devgn and have also had the opportunity to share the screen with him in films like Prakash Jha’s Gangaajal and Apaharan,” he told Variety India. “I am sure he will bring his own style and perspective to the show. I wish the team all the very best for the new season.”
Ajay Devgn Ushers in ‘Crime Patrol 2026 – Crime Ka Current Season’
Ajay Devgn’s foray into television hosting marks a significant new chapter for ‘Crime Patrol’. The superstar was officially announced as the new face of the show, which will now be titled Crime Patrol 2026 – Crime Ka Current Season. The new season is slated to premiere on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 10:30 PM on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony LIV.
Devgn has already completed shooting for 15 episodes of the upcoming season. In promotional teasers, Devgn emphasises a shift in focus, highlighting that perpetrators of crimes are often not strangers but individuals known to the victims. “We are taught from childhood to beware of strangers and to keep our homes locked at night. But in many cases today, the culprit is someone you know,” Devgn states in the promo, promising to bring cases that shook the country to raise awareness.
Adding another layer to the revamped format, actor Rajesh Tailang is also reportedly set to host additional episodes this season, though the exact number is yet to be finalised. Crime Patrol, which first premiered on May 9, 2003, has maintained its status as one of Indian television’s longest-running crime series, having completed nine seasons and over 2,100 episodes.