Karan Johar Reveals Why Virat Kohli Will Never Be Invited To His Show 'Koffee With Karan'

Filmmaker and talk show host Karan Johar recently opened up about why he has no plans to invite Indian cricketer Virat Kohli to his popular celebrity chat show, Koffee With Karan. Speaking candidly in an interview, Karan said he has decided not to feature any cricketers on the show after the controversy that followed the infamous 2019 episode featuring Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul.

What did Karan Johar say?

The Koffee With Karan host, in a conversation with Tennis star Sania Mirza, revealed that the backlash from that particular episode had a lasting impact on him. “I am not calling any cricketers on the show again ever,” he stated firmly. Karan explained that the experience was unpleasant for all involved and made him more cautious about inviting guests from outside the film industry. Recalling that period, Karan Johar admitted that the situation escalated beyond his expectations. He said: 

“It was a tough time for everyone. I had to face a lot of heat for something that wasn’t said by me but happened on my show. It made me rethink the kind of guests I invite.” 

KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya controversy

In 2019, cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul appeared on Karan Johar’s talk show Koffee With Karan Season 6. They became the centre of a massive controversy due to their remarks on the show. During the episode, both players made comments that were widely criticised as misogynistic, disrespectful, and inappropriate.

Hardik, in particular, faced severe backlash for his statements about women, relationships, and partying. His comments, which many viewers found offensive and objectifying, sparked outrage across social media soon after the episode aired. KL Rahul, though less outspoken in the segment, was also criticised for not intervening or reacting to the comments.

The backlash quickly escalated into a nationwide debate, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took the issue seriously, issuing show-cause notices to both cricketers and suspending them temporarily from playing for India. They were also sent back home from the Australia tour as disciplinary action.

Following the controversy, both Hardik and Rahul issued public apologies, expressing regret for their comments and stating that they had not intended to offend anyone. Hardik Pandya shared that he had ‘got carried away by the nature of the show,' while KL Rahul apologised for ‘inappropriate and insensitive comments.’

The BCCI eventually lifted the suspension after both cricketers faced disciplinary action and the matter was reviewed by the Committee of Administrators (CoA). However, the incident left a lasting impression on all parties involved. Karan Johar, the host and producer of Koffee With Karan, also spoke out about the incident later, admitting that he felt responsible for what had happened on his platform.

What’s next for Karan Johar?

Karan Johar's following projects include producing Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri (December 2025), Chand Mera Dil (April 2026), and Nagzilla (August 2026). He is also preparing to direct an untitled romance film expected in 2026, potentially starring Alia Bhatt and featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. 

What are your thoughts about the Karan Johar remark over not including Cricketers on his show?

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