Milind Soman Discusses Why Classic Sitcoms Won't Fly Today
Synopsis
In a candid interview, Milind Soman shares his thoughts on why the humour of classic sitcoms like Seinfeld and Friends would not resonate in today's society. He reflects on the evolution of audience sensitivities and the impact on freedom of speech.
Key Takeaways
Milind Soman advocates for awareness of societal sensitivities in humour.
Classic sitcoms may not resonate with today's audiences.
Freedom of speech is subjective and depends on individual choice.
Milind is set to star in Kaattaan alongside Vijay Sethupathi.
Societal changes impact how comedy is perceived globally.
Mumbai, March 23 (NationPress) Milind Soman, a prominent actor and fitness advocate, asserts that the style of humour and dialogue found in renowned sitcoms such as Seinfeld and Friends—which dominated the entertainment scene in their time—would face backlash in today's world, reflecting the evolving sensitivities of modern audiences.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, Milind discussed the global transformation in content, stating, “When you examine television shows or films produced today, the freedom to express oneself is significantly curtailed.”
Referencing the iconic sitcoms, he elaborated, “Take ‘Seinfeld’, a highly acclaimed comedy series, or ‘Friends’, one of the most beloved shows ever created; the types of remarks made in those series are no longer permissible. Even in America, those conversations can't be had today.”
He emphasized that this shift regarding freedom of expression is not unique to India but is a worldwide phenomenon.
“This change is global, not confined to our country. Nowadays, individuals voice objections, stating, ‘you can’t say that,’ or ‘this isn’t humorous.’ In the past, people might have been offended but remained silent. Now, they openly express their offense,” he noted.
When questioned by IANS about whether this impacts freedom of speech, he maintained that it ultimately hinges on personal discretion.
“There are still those who speak their minds without concern. Conversely, some are mindful of others’ feelings and may choose their words carefully. It’s ultimately your decision whether to voice certain thoughts or not,” he explained.
Known for his candid nature, the actor has consistently displayed his outspoken character, a trait that is also evident in his selection of projects.
The 60-year-old is excited about his upcoming role in Kaattaan, alongside South superstar Vijay Sethupathi.
The series is set to premiere on March 27 on Jio Hotstar.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize that Milind Soman's observations highlight a significant cultural shift. The evolution of societal sensitivities is reshaping the landscape of entertainment, prompting a re-evaluation of what is considered acceptable in humor and dialogue.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Milind Soman say about sitcoms?
Milind Soman stated that the humour and conversations in sitcoms like Seinfeld and Friends would not be accepted in today's society due to changing audience sensitivities.
Is the change in humour limited to India?
No, Milind emphasized that this change is a global phenomenon, affecting audiences worldwide.
What does Milind think about freedom of speech?
He believes that freedom of speech is ultimately a personal choice, with individuals deciding how freely they express their thoughts.
What is Milind Soman's upcoming project?
Milind Soman's upcoming project is titled Kaattaan, co-starring Vijay Sethupathi, premiering on March 27 on Jio Hotstar.
How does Milind describe today's audience?
He notes that today's audience is more vocal about their objections, expressing offense at statements that would have gone unchallenged in the past.
