Karan Johar Explains Why Virat Kohli Has Never Been on Koffee With Karan: “No Cricketers Now”

Filmmaker Karan Johar has finally addressed a long-standing fan query — why Virat Kohli, one of India’s most popular sports icons, has never appeared on his celebrity talk show Koffee With Karan. Speaking during a recent chat on Sania Mirza’s podcast, Johar revealed that his decision stems from the aftermath of the infamous 2019 Hardik Pandya–KL Rahul controversy, which changed how the show approaches guest selection.

The 2019 Controversy That Changed Everything

Back in 2019, cricketers Hardik Pandya and KL Rahul appeared on Koffee With Karan and made remarks that drew widespread criticism on social media for being sexist and inappropriate. The backlash was so severe that the episode was pulled down from Disney+ Hotstar, and both players were temporarily suspended ahead of an international ODI series.

Johar said the incident left a lasting impact on both the show and himself, prompting a complete re-evaluation of guest policies.

“I have never asked Virat. And now, I am not asking any cricketers after what happened with Hardik and Rahul,” he admitted. “There are many I just felt wouldn’t come, so I never asked them in the first place.”

A Shift in Guest Lineup

Following the controversy, Koffee With Karan pivoted back to its cinematic roots, focusing mainly on Bollywood stars, directors, and public figures from the entertainment industry. Johar explained that the decision was as much about protecting the show’s integrity as it was about respecting the sensitivities surrounding sports personalities.

“That episode taught me a lot,” Johar said. “I realised that what feels like a light-hearted chat for us could have real-world implications for the people involved.”

The Virat Kohli Question

While Kohli’s wife, actor Anushka Sharma, has appeared on Koffee With Karan multiple times, Kohli himself has never taken the famous coffee couch — a fact that has often sparked curiosity among fans. Johar clarified that after 2019, he consciously chose not to approach any cricketers, including Kohli, to avoid any potential controversies.

This revelation also aligns with the show’s evolving tone. In recent seasons, Johar has opted for more balanced and introspective conversations rather than the overly provocative ones that once defined the show’s earlier years.

Other Celebrities Who Declined Invitations

Johar also noted that not all absences are due to the show’s policy changes. Actor Ranbir Kapoor, a former guest, has repeatedly declined invitations in recent seasons.

“He’s come before, but for the last three seasons, he’s said no,” Johar shared, hinting at the growing selectivity among celebrities when it comes to televised talk shows.

The Legacy of Koffee With Karan

Despite occasional controversies, Koffee With Karan remains one of India’s most-watched and talked-about celebrity shows, known for its mix of candid confessions, witty banter, and pop culture moments that often dominate social media.

However, Johar’s remarks reflect a more cautious era for entertainment talk shows — one where public perception, accountability, and sensitivity now shape content decisions.

Karan Johar’s decision to steer clear of featuring cricketers, including Virat Kohli, signals how Koffee With Karan has evolved since 2019 — from being a playground for celebrity gossip to a platform more mindful of its influence. The filmmaker’s transparency offers insight into how one controversy redefined the boundaries of India’s most iconic talk show.

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