Bigg Boss project head Abhishek Mukherjee recently shared a harrowing incident where a contestant on a regional version of the show threatened to commit suicide.
Inside the World of Bigg Boss
Bigg Boss stands as one of India’s most massive reality shows, adapted into numerous languages across the nation. As Endemol Shine India gears up for Bigg Boss 19, set to premiere in August, the show’s project head, Abhishek Mukherjee, reflected on his 17 years with the franchise.
During a recent podcast, Mukherjee opened up about his most challenging experiences, including a moment when a contestant locked herself in a washroom and threatened to end her life.
A Shocking Suicide Threat on Set
Abhishek Mukherjee revealed that while the Hindi seasons have had their share of drama, a specific incident from a regional Bigg Boss version stood out. A popular actress, who had entered the show post a difficult breakup, found herself entangled in a new relationship within the house.
Tragically, this new relationship proved to be disingenuous, with the male contestant reportedly faking the ‘love angle’ for the cameras. When the actress discovered the deceit, her emotional state plummeted.
In the middle of the night, around 3 AM, she locked herself in the washroom and attempted to commit suicide, seemingly forgetting she was on a televised show.
Responding to a Crisis
Upon receiving the urgent call, the production team, including Mukherjee, immediately rushed to the set. A crucial element of Bigg Boss’s setup is a resident psychiatrist, available 24/7 on call.
The team knew they needed to buy time for the psychiatrist to travel from Mumbai to Lonavala. For over three hours, from 3:30 AM to 6:45 AM, they continuously spoke to the distressed contestant, engaging her until professional help arrived.
Following the intense ordeal, the contestant was eventually evicted from the Bigg Boss house on medical grounds, prioritizing her well-being above the show’s dynamics.
- A regional Bigg Boss contestant, a popular actress, threatened suicide after a partner in the house cheated on her.
- The incident occurred at 3 AM, leading to an urgent response from the production team.
- A 24/7 psychiatrist on call was crucial in managing the crisis.
- The team engaged the contestant for over three hours until medical help arrived.
- The contestant was later evicted on medical grounds for her safety.
This harrowing account sheds light on the extreme emotional pressures faced by participants and the critical measures taken by the production team to ensure their safety and well-being in the intense environment of reality television.
