Akshay Kumar Returns To TV After 10 Years: 'Every Opportunity I Got Was Because I Showed Up On Time'

Akshay Kumar is back on the small screen after nearly a decade, stepping in as the host of Sony TV’s latest reality show, Wheel of Fortune. In a conversation with Hindustan Times, the actor looked back at his

long journey in the entertainment industry and reflected on the series of decisions that, over time, shaped his career rather than one defining, life-altering moment.

The Bollywood star, who has consistently balanced films and television across different phases of his career, said his return to TV felt organic and timely, especially given how the medium has evolved over the years.

Akshay Kumar on returning as a reality show host

Television has always held a special place in Akshay Kumar’s professional life. He first hosted the seven-part miniseries Seven Deadly Arts with Akshay Kumar in 2004, followed by a successful run on Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi from 2008 to 2011. He later judged MasterChef India, appeared as a mentor on Dare 2 Dance, and briefly judged The Great Indian Laughter Challenge in 2017. Wheel of Fortune marks his return as a full-time reality show host after several years.

Explaining why he chose to come back with this particular format, Akshay said, “I wanted to do something that truly felt meaningful and joyful. Wheel of Fortune instantly clicked with me because it’s simple at heart, yet powerful in spirit. It celebrates participation, sharp thinking, and family bonding, values I deeply connect with.”

Wheel of Fortune is the Indian adaptation of the globally popular game show, where contestants spin a giant wheel to win prize money and solve word puzzles. The show premiered on Sony TV and SonyLIV on January 27.

Talking about the changing television landscape, the 58-year-old added, “Today, the small screen has evolved beyond just watching; it’s about engaging, playing along, and feeling included. Audiences now want shows they can experience together at home, and the show fits perfectly into that space. It’s timeless, yet perfectly in tune with today’s viewers.”

“There wasn’t one magical spin,” says Akshay

Fondly known as ‘Khiladi Kumar’, Akshay has completed over three decades in Bollywood with films spanning genres — from Yeh Dillagi and Hera Pheri to Kesari, Pad Man and Good Newwz. When asked about the moment that changed his fortunes, the actor was clear that success didn’t come from a single breakthrough.

“As for the moment that truly spun the wheel of fortune in my life, I believe it was the day I chose discipline over comfort. Coming from humble beginnings, every opportunity I got was because I showed up on time, worked hard, and stayed honest to my craft,” he said.

He further added, “There wasn’t one magical spin, but a series of choices that slowly changed my life. I truly believe that when preparation meets opportunity, the wheel turns in your favour and that’s exactly what this show stands for.”

On the film front, Akshay Kumar will next be seen in Priyadarshan’s Bhooth Bangla, alongside Paresh Rawal and Wamiqa Gabbi. He also has Welcome To The Jungle and Haiwaan in the pipeline.