Mumbai: Actor Rohit Roy has ignited a fresh debate in the entertainment industry with his recent remarks about television, labelling it a “dustbin medium” and claiming that television actors lack the grace and “class” of film stars. The actor, who himself rose to massive fame through the iconic 1990s Doordarshan show Swabhimaan, made these candid observations during an interview on the YouTube channel Kindle Cast.
When questioned about the perceived hierarchy or “caste system” between cinema and television in India, Roy did not hold back. He expressed that film stars carry themselves with an inherent dignity that is often missing among television actors. “You see any public appearance of a film actor, you see the carriage with which he or she comes out, especially if they are a star. Of course, everyone puts on a front. But their front is graceful, dignified, stylish, cool. There is a certain amount of style, class,” Roy stated.
Comparing this to the television fraternity, he pointedly remarked, “You see another gathering with lots of TV actors. Look at the way they behave, you will get your answer yourself.” Roy stressed the importance of public conduct, adding that actors cannot make irresponsible comments or act inappropriately merely to grab the paparazzi’s attention. He also commented on fashion choices, noting that while actors across both mediums might wear revealing outfits, film stars manage to carry them with a distinct sense of style.
Addressing the longevity and impact of the two mediums, Roy placed cinema on a higher pedestal. Explaining why he values films more, he concluded, “Cinema is cinema. It is for posterity. Television is a dustbin medium.” He explained that while social media antics might generate temporary buzz, they fail to command long-term respect from audiences.
Despite his harsh critique of the medium, Roy acknowledged the underlying struggles within the television industry. He admitted that television actors have historically faced “step-motherly treatment.” While exceptionally talented television actors do garner respect, he observed that they rarely achieve the monumental stardom reserved for their silver screen counterparts.