The legendary crime series CID, which thrilled audiences for 18 years, is making a triumphant return with its second season. Revered by fans for its engaging storytelling and fast-paced episodes, CID stands apart from other television shows that often extend narratives unnecessarily. With constantly evolving plots and the episodic nature, the show not only kept viewers hooked but also provided a platform for numerous character actors to shine.
Dayanand Shetty, known for his iconic role as Daya, recently spoke about the show’s impact. He shared how CID has been a “stepping stone” for aspiring actors, allowing them to refine their craft. Reflecting on the show’s format, he mentioned that crime-based dramas like CID gave actors a chance to pursue their passion. According to Shetty, episodic characters were cast thoughtfully, offering new faces a platform to showcase their abilities.
Discussing the impact of CID over the years, Shetty recalled how many actors who worked on the show two decades ago have gone on to lead successful careers. These performers, initially unknown, found their footing through CID. Their talents blossomed, leading to prominent roles in other serials and sustaining their careers for decades. He emphasized, “CID is like a stepping stone for them or maybe entry into Television”, paving the way for fresh talent. Shetty expressed a wish for more shows like CID to be created, as they can continue to provide opportunities for budding actors.
Aditya Srivastava, the actor behind Abhijeet, added a humorous perspective, pointing out the need for diverse characters in episodic crime shows, jokingly noting, “Even we need a murderer, or what will we do?” His lighthearted comment highlighted the essence of such shows, where new narratives and fresh faces keep the format alive and dynamic.
Fans are ecstatic about CID’s comeback, eagerly awaiting the original cast’s return. Familiar faces like Shivaji Satam, Dayanand Shetty, and Aditya Srivastava have reprised their iconic roles, bringing nostalgia and excitement. However, the absence of Dinesh Phadnis, who played Freddy, has left a void. Reflecting on this loss, Shetty shared how deeply the team misses Phadnis. He fondly remembered him as a senior who brought warmth and humor to the set, describing him as a man whose one-liners were unforgettable. Dayanand Shetty recounted, “We all miss him. He was our senior. Satam sir has been in the show since the beginning. And sir (Freddy) was there since 92 or 93 when the pilot was shot. The character Dhanu, played by Sudhakar, has also been there since 92 or 93. And Dinesh also joined later, so he was senior to me when I joined the show.”
Shivaji Satam, the unforgettable ACP Pradyuman, likened the bond among the cast to that of a family. He shared the sentiment of loss, equating it to the grief of losing a family member. Srivastava echoed these feelings, reminiscing about moments shared in the makeup room and how conversations about Phadnis often surface during their time together. The team’s camaraderie, both on and off-screen, remains a cornerstone of the show’s enduring legacy.
For those unfamiliar, CID ended its initial run on October 27, 2018, after two decades of success on Sony TV. Its long tenure made it one of India’s most beloved and longest-running television series. Fans were thrilled to learn that the new season began filming in Mumbai in November 2024. With its return, the show promises to rekindle old memories while introducing new adventures, ensuring its legacy continues for years to come.