Quick money lures TV actors

New Delhi Ever wondered why many TV actors, including popular ones, are opting for reality shows? The answer is simple: short term commitment, quick money and high visibility.



"Money is a major factor for TV actors to go in for reality shows. They involve fewer days of commitment and are a source of quick money," Abhishek Awasthi, a participant on STAR Plus' "Zara Nachke Dikha", told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

Abhishek was first known just as item girl Rakhi Sawant's boyfriend and later the two took part in dance show "Nach Baliye". After they broke up, Abhishek slowly made a name for himself through SAB TV's comedy show "Jugni Chali Jalandhar". But now he is back to a dance reality show, which incidentally has Rakhi too.

"I have done two dance reality shows and I must mention I have learnt a lot from both of them. A number of the dance forms I know today were taught in the shows. And after 'Jugni...', I needed a break. Plus, this was good money," Abhishek added.

According to industry sources, actors are paid a package of Rs.200,000 upward for reality shows depending on their popularity. On the other hand they are paid anything between Rs.2,000 and Rs.80,000 on a per day shooting basis for TV soaps.

Actor Apurva Agnihotri, best remembered as the goodlooking boss in "Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin", has also participated in reality shows but admits that they "spoil" actors.

"I think reality shows have spoilt TV actors. The shows offer quick and ...