Megastar Amitabh Bacchan, who with his characteristic baritone re-wrote the history of game shows in India with the super-successful Kaun Banega Crorepathi, has inspired a host of actors in Bollywood and the South to become game shows hosts.

If in the South, Sarath Kumar turned one with Koteeswaran, rumours were amok that the Telugu version was going to see Chiranjeevi. It was in 2001. In this year, a reel star known for his powerful delivery of dialogue, is hosting a premiere game show titled Deal Or No Deal for Gemini TV. The hit TV game show has so far been adopted in 73 countries.

Actor-turned-TV host Sai Kumar,said, “I am delighted to be part of Gemini TV’s Deal OR No Deal. I have seen many shows on TV. But then I saw the original Deal Or No Deal and wanted to be part of it in Telugu. It’s an exciting game show and has all the elements that a wholesome family entertainer should have. And the show in Telugu is a completely original show. It’s a fabulous set and the best part of the game is that anyone can win up to Rs 50 Lakhs. There is no need to answer any complex questions to win money; all it takes is guts and common sense. And I am delighted to be able to give away lots of money on this show, earning the blessings of all the winners on the show. And the Sai Kumar on Deal OR No Deal is the real Sai Kumar, not the reel Sai Kumar."

If this becomes a success, will more stars make a beeline to test waters on the television?