Sony TV landed in controversy on Saturday, April 5, after making a dramatic and misleading announcement suggesting the death of ACP Pradyuman, the beloved character from the iconic crime show CID.
The channel’s official social media handles posted a tribute reading, “In loving memory of ACP Pradyuman… A loss that will never be forgotten,” alongside a graphic that declared: “End of an era. ACP Pradyuman (1998–2025).”
Initially perceived as a real obituary for actor Shivaji Satam, who portrayed Pradyuman for decades, the post sent fans into panic and frenzy.
However, it soon became clear that the announcement was a marketing stunt to promote the upcoming launch of CID 2.
What followed was a wave of outrage. Fans across social media blasted the post as “cringe,” “insensitive,” and “shameful.”
Many accused Sony of exploiting the audience’s emotions for cheap publicity, with some commenting, “This isn’t marketing, this is manipulation,” and demanding at least a disclaimer to clarify the context.
Several users created memes mocking the announcement, while others admitted they panicked about the actor’s health before learning it was the fictional character being written off.
Shivaji Satam himself spoke to Bombay Times, revealing he was unaware of the move. “I’ve taken a break and haven’t been informed whether my character is permanently written off or not,” he stated.
The backlash over the announcement has sparked a broader conversation about marketing ethics in Indian television.
Fans argue that a character and actor who defined an entire era deserved more respectful treatment, not a gimmicky send-off disguised as grief.
