Bigg Boss 9’s Suyyash Rai praises those who rejected The 50, calls it 'badly managed zoo'

Former Bigg Boss 9 contestant Suyyash Rai sparked discussion online after posting an Instagram Story that many believe targeted the newly launched reality show The 50. The actor and singer, married to television actress Kishwer Merchant, did not name the show but described it in unflattering terms soon after its premiere.

In his first Story, Suyyash wrote, “Ek show chal raha hai is time TV pe! It's more like a Zoo! A badly managed Zoo...” The remark drew attention as The 50, which premiered on February 1, has made headlines for its crowded format. The show is an Indian adaptation of the French series Les Cinquante and features 50 contestants competing for a large cash prize.

Suyyash followed up with a longer post, making his criticism more pointed while keeping it indirect. He wrote, “Ek show chal raha hai is time TV pe! Its more like a ZOO! A badly managed ZOO to be precise! I Have few friends and acquaintances in there, but there are so many of them who have done much better and bigger things in life, and they shouldn't have come here in this show, AND Some will never grow up. I am sooo done with such people!”

The actor then added another Story, praising those who chose to stay away from the show. He said, “Jin Jin ko is show ka offer aaya tha aur jinhone mana kiya, mere dil mei unke liye special jagaha hai...ek alag respect hai unke naam mai apni jaydaad mei hissa likh k jaauga!” The post hinted at disappointment with certain choices.

The 50 brings together television actors, influencers, and former reality show faces. The confirmed lineup includes Karan Patel, Faisal Shaikh also known as Mr Faisu, Divya Agarwal, Urvashi Dholakia, Shiny Doshi, Ridhi Dogra, Prince Narula, Yuvika Chaudhary, Archana Gautam, Manisha Rani, Nikki Tamboli, Krishna Shroff, Dino James, Sapna Chaudhary, Maxtern, and Khanzaadi.

Suyyash Rai has not clarified his remarks further. His comments have added to debate around The 50’s structure, contestant selection, and execution, which continues to receive mixed reactions from viewers and industry observers across television circles.