Varun Badola Discusses the Rise of Character Artists in the Age of OTT and Social Media
Synopsis
Varun Badola reveals how character actors are gaining well-deserved recognition in the wake of OTT platforms and social media's rise, discussing the transformative impact on their careers.
Key Takeaways
OTT platforms have transformed the landscape for character actors.
Social media plays a crucial role in enhancing visibility.
Concept-driven films showcase talent beyond traditional lead roles.
Long-awaited recognition for veteran actors like Rakesh Bedi .
Meaningful storytelling is becoming more prevalent in the industry.
Mumbai, April 07 (NationPress) Actor Varun Badola has shared insights on how character actors are finally receiving the acknowledgment they deserve following the significant growth of OTT platforms and social media.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, the star of 'Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chand' remarked that numerous talented performers who do not conform to the traditional lead actor mold are now gaining recognition, thanks to the evolution of OTT and social media.
When asked about the increasing popularity of character artists, Varun stated, "I believe OTT platforms have significantly influenced this transformation. There are many gifted actors who may not suit the typical lead roles, and in the past, they were not given the acknowledgment they rightfully earned. OTT has provided them with impactful, substantial roles, as these productions are not solely reliant on star power."
Discussing the role of social media, Varun noted that even minor characters can become household names through reels and memes.
"Social media enhances this phenomenon; when a minor character gains traction, memes and reels further elevate their visibility. However, I believe that such content only goes viral when an actor is afforded a valuable opportunity initially, and OTT has precisely provided that," he emphasized.
Quoting the work of Aditya Dhar and Ranveer Singh in 'Dhurandhar', Varun pointed out that a concept-driven film does not rely on star power.
"This shift is observable in cinema as well. For example, a film like Dhurandhar, which is concept-centric, does not depend on stars. That’s what makes it remarkable. Actors like Rakesh Bedi are finally receiving the recognition they have long awaited, and even smaller roles in such films have gained widespread popularity," he concluded.
Point of View
Varun Badola's insights underscore a significant shift in how character artists are perceived in the industry. The rise of OTT platforms and social media has democratized fame, allowing diverse talents to shine, which is crucial for a more inclusive representation in storytelling.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are character artists gaining recognition now?
Character artists are gaining recognition due to the rise of OTT platforms and social media, which provide them with substantial roles that do not solely rely on star power.
How has social media contributed to this change?
Social media has amplified the visibility of character artists, allowing even minor roles to become popular through memes and viral content.
What example did Varun Badola mention?
Varun mentioned the film 'Dhurandhar' as an example of a concept-driven project that does not depend on star actors.
What impact have OTT platforms had on storytelling?
OTT platforms have shifted storytelling towards more meaningful and diverse narratives, enabling character actors to take on significant roles.
