HT[M]-Actor quits, channel pulls the plug on show

Channel takes call after hysterical fans refuse to watch Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon without actor Barun Sobti

Usually the quitting of lead actors doesn't have devastating effects on television serials. But that doesn't seem to be the case with the hit Star Plus show, Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon (IPKKND).

It had only been a few weeks since the lead actor, Barun Sobti, had decided to quit the show for personal reasons.

But within days of the news getting out, the channel started receiving hysteric feedback from fans who refused to watch the show without Barun.

"People wrote in and not only questioned the reasons to his quitting, but they also accused the production house of not doing a good enough job. And now, the channel has decided to not carry the show without Barun," says an insider.

On Friday, the last episode that Barun has shot for will go on air. The same episode will also mark the end of the TV series, which until a few weeks ago was expected to stay on air till January 2013. "The makers planned to continue the show by introducing another male lead character. But the audience's reaction to Barun's decision to quit has left the channel with no other option."

The insider adds, "The channel is yet to take a decision on whether IPKKND will be replaced by their new show, Kaali from Monday onwards at 8pm.

The promos of Kaali have been on air for a few weeks now, but things are yet to be confirmed. The channel will need to figure things quickly."

While news of actors getting replaced is common, this move on the channel's behalf is unprecedented.