Mumbai, June 13, 2025 — Acclaimed actor Kay Kay Menon says the advent of OTT platforms has revolutionized opportunities for serious performers, many of whom were earlier confined to villainous or secondary roles in mainstream cinema.
Speaking at the trailer launch of Disney+ Hotstar’s upcoming series Special Ops 2 in Mumbai on Monday, Menon reflected on how the streaming era has changed the landscape for actors like him.
“We come from a time where there were only theatrical releases… good actors like us used to play villain characters,” Menon told reporters. “Now it’s opened up completely. We as actors have a chance to enjoy ourselves with whatever talent we have. That’s what OTT gives us.”
🎭 ‘Special Ops’ Role Still a Favourite
Menon, who reprises his widely appreciated role as RAW officer Himmat Singh, said he continues to enjoy the character’s layered personality, even if the tech jargon remains alien to him.
“I know Himmat Singh in and out. I also know that I don’t know anything about cyber [security]… So I just acted like I’m an expert — that’s all,” he quipped.
First released in 2020, Special Ops was a hit for its gripping espionage plot. It was followed by Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story, which explored the character’s backstory. The sequel, Special Ops 2, will premiere on July 11 on JioCinema (previously Hotstar).
🎬 Director Neeraj Pandey on the Spy Genre’s Appeal
Director Neeraj Pandey, known for his knack for espionage thrillers, said the spy genre remains rich with stories yet to be told.
“These are covert operations — they are classified, they are under possible denial. Not too many people are aware of them. That makes them compelling,” said Pandey.
“Our aim is to keep discovering newer stories and bring them to audiences.”
🎭 Actress Kher Calls for More Complex Roles for Women
Kali Kher, who returns as Juhi Kashyap in the series, highlighted the lack of nuanced roles for women, urging more inclusive storytelling.
“As an actor, you want to play all roles — grey, black, white, yellow, orange. But for women, there are very limited characters written,” she said.
Kher also praised Pandey for writing fierce female characters, pointing to Taapsee Pannu’s role in his film Baby as an example.
“I was lucky to play Juhi. Neeraj sir has always done this — created powerful roles for women,” she added.