The popular celebrity talk show Koffee With Karan has returned for its ninth and final season, premiering on October 14, 2026. Hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar, the concluding season streams on JioHotstar through a first-of-its-kind collaboration with NBCUniversal’s Peac**k Hub. The landmark release brings an end to the show’s 22-year run on television and digital platforms.
A Milestone Global Partnership for Indian IP
The collaboration marks the first time JioHotstar and NBCUniversal’s Peac**k Hub have partnered on an Indian-produced show. Since its launch in India in 2023, The Peac**k Hub has primarily focused on international content. This includes Peac**k Originals such as All Her Fault, PONIES, The Copenhagen Test, and The Five Star Weekend. It also features titles from Universal Studio Group, DreamWorks Animation, Universal Pictures, Focus Features, Sky, and Bravo.
By bringing Koffee With Karan into its fold, the platform has expanded its mandate to include locally produced programming. Alok Jain, head of the Hindi & English Entertainment Business at JioStar, noted the significance of this move.
“This is a significant moment in how we see the future of Indian IP. Koffee With Karan has always been one of our most valuable properties, but this is the first time a global studio has chosen to partner with us around a show, not just its distribution,” Jain said.
What to Expect from the Final Season
The final outing of the series features actor Salman Khan as its first guest, kicking off a roster of high-profile celebrity appearances. Over its two-decade history, the talk show has become a cultural touchstone for Indian pop culture, known for its candid confessions, rapid-fire rounds, and iconic red couch moments.
Reflecting on this milestone, host Karan Johar shared his perspective on the show’s journey:
“I started this show wanting nothing more than coffee, honest conversation, and a little indiscretion with people I love. That instinct hasn’t changed in twenty years. What has changed is who’s paying attention. Having The Peac**k Hub choose to collaborate with us for the first time in India is humbling,” Johar stated.
Chris Taylor, managing director of APAC for NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution and International Networks & DTC, added that the show’s unique perspective and distinctive format made it a fitting choice for the company’s inaugural local programming partnership in the region.
Commercial Impact and Advertising
Beyond its cultural footprint, the final season represents a major commercial asset for JioHotstar. Industry reports from Cinema Express and Storyboard18 indicate that the show has secured eight brand partners for its swan song.
Additionally, the platform’s rate card highlights strong monetization potential, with connected TV video ad rates reaching Rs 2,200 per thousand impressions. This strong advertiser interest underscores the enduring market value of premium Indian unscripted entertainment, even as the property signs off for good.
