No Kangana Ranaut in Lock Upp season 2? Here's why the actress won't return
Iraa Paul | Jun 26, 2026, 09:37 IST
Kangana Ranaut will not return as the host of Lock Upp Season 2. Here's why the Netflix reboot has new hosts and a look at the confirmed contestants joining the reality show.
Image credit : Kangana Ranaut IG/ Netflix | Everything about Lock Upp season 2
Reality show fans were surprised when Lock Upp Season 2 was announced without Kangana Ranaut, who hosted the first season and became one of its biggest highlights. Her outspoken style and confrontational approach helped the show stand out in the crowded reality TV space.
However, according to producer Ektaa Kapoor, Kangana's absence is part of a larger creative decision. The upcoming season, titled Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa, is being presented as a complete reboot rather than a continuation of the original show.
![No Kangana Ranaut in Lock Upp season 2? Here's why the actress won't return]()
Why Is Kangana Ranaut Not Returnin
Speaking about the revamped season, Ektaa Kapoor explained during a promotional event that the makers wanted to start fresh. The show's format has been redesigned, the platform has changed, and even the hosting structure has been overhauled.
Kapoor revealed that the new version retains very little from the original series. As a result, the makers decided not to continue with the previous host-and-jailer setup that audiences saw in Season 1.
The reality show has also moved to Netflix, giving the franchise a new identity and a wider audience. Instead of Kangana Ranaut, the new season will be fronted by Farah Khan and Riteish Deshmukh, who will guide contestants through the high-pressure competition.
While fans may miss Kangana's presence, there has been no indication of any fallout between the actress and the makers. The change appears to be part of the show's overall rebranding strategy.
The second season promises several major changes, including:
Read More: Why are fans disgusted by Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa Season 2? Akanksha Choudhary-Yogesh Rawat's controversial entry has everyone asking ‘Is Netflix rewarding cheaters?’
The makers have already revealed several participants who will be entering the Lock Upp house.
The television and film actor is among the first confirmed contestants. His entry has generated considerable buzz due to his popularity across multiple generations of viewers.
One of television's most recognizable faces, Shivangi Joshi is set to bring a strong fan following to the competition.
The social media influencer and content creator has officially joined the contestant lineup for the upcoming season.
![No Kangana Ranaut in Lock Upp season 2? Here's why the actress won't return]()
Known for his successful television career, Dheeraj Dhoopar has also been confirmed as a participant in the Netflix reality show.
The Splitsvilla 16 contestants are set to enter the competition together, adding another layer of drama and intrigue to the season.
Apart from the confirmed contestants, several celebrities have been linked to the show through reports and speculation. Names such as Sunita Ahuja, Harshad Chopda, Shilpa Shinde, Sufi Motiwala, and Riaz Aly have surfaced online, though the makers have not officially announced their participation.
At the same time, some rumored contestants have publicly denied being part of the reality series, making the final lineup one of the biggest talking points ahead of the premiere.
The first season of Lock Upp gained attention for its controversies, shocking revelations, and Kangana Ranaut's fearless hosting style. The upcoming Netflix edition now faces the challenge of creating a distinct identity while retaining the elements that made the franchise successful.
With a fresh format, new hosts, and a growing contestant lineup, Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa is positioning itself as a new chapter for the franchise. Whether the reboot can recreate the buzz of the original season remains to be seen, but anticipation among reality TV fans is already building.
Read More: Putting Rest To All Rumours, Lockk Up Winner Munawar Faruqui Introduces His Lady Love To Fans!
However, according to producer Ektaa Kapoor, Kangana's absence is part of a larger creative decision. The upcoming season, titled Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa, is being presented as a complete reboot rather than a continuation of the original show.
Image credit : Kangana Ranaut/ IG | Kangana's absence is part of a larger creative decision
Why Is Kangana Ranaut Not Returning?
Kapoor revealed that the new version retains very little from the original series. As a result, the makers decided not to continue with the previous host-and-jailer setup that audiences saw in Season 1.
The reality show has also moved to Netflix, giving the franchise a new identity and a wider audience. Instead of Kangana Ranaut, the new season will be fronted by Farah Khan and Riteish Deshmukh, who will guide contestants through the high-pressure competition.
While fans may miss Kangana's presence, there has been no indication of any fallout between the actress and the makers. The change appears to be part of the show's overall rebranding strategy.
What's New in Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa?
- A completely revamped format
- New hosts Farah Khan and Riteish Deshmukh
- A fresh set of challenges and twists
- A new streaming home on Netflix
- Fourteen celebrity contestants competing for survival
Image credit : Netflix | makers wanted to start fresh
Confirmed Contestants of Lock Upp Season 2
Ram Kapoor
Shivangi Joshi
Pamela Serena
Dheeraj Dhoopar
Akanksha Chaudhary and Yogesh Rawat
Several Rumored Names Continue to Make Headlines
At the same time, some rumored contestants have publicly denied being part of the reality series, making the final lineup one of the biggest talking points ahead of the premiere.
Can the Reboot Match Season 1's Popularity?
With a fresh format, new hosts, and a growing contestant lineup, Lock Upp: Sach Ya Sazaa is positioning itself as a new chapter for the franchise. Whether the reboot can recreate the buzz of the original season remains to be seen, but anticipation among reality TV fans is already building.
Read More: Putting Rest To All Rumours, Lockk Up Winner Munawar Faruqui Introduces His Lady Love To Fans!
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