Sunny Leone
By Priyanka Bhadani
How does it feel to be back on a reality TV show?
It’s a really nice feeling, just that this time I am on the other side and observing the contestants. I am watching the drama unfold before my eyes — the things they do and the way they react to a certain situation. It’s fun to watch them.
Do you relate to any of the things happening with the contestants?
The basics of a reality show more or less remains the same. Thus, I relate to a lot of things that is happening with the girls on the show. I understand those feelings of loneliness, missing family and friends. At times, I even talk to them about it. I like to interact with the contestants in order to understand their psyche.
Personally, what is your take on reality shows?
Ohh! I just love watching reality TV series. I think they are fun. In fact, I am addicted to many US-based reality TV shows so much so that I get them recorded, and watch them when I go back.
What do you find interesting about them?
I am really fascinated by human behaviour and the way they react to situations. Also, it’s really interesting to watch people following the daily routine on screen. The way the clothes are selected, how they do their hair, the way they wear their make-up etc. It gives you so much insight on what’s going on in a person’s mind.
Anything in particular that pulled you towards MTV Splitsvilla?
I have grown up watching the US shows on MTV. I am an MTV product. I have always loved what they do. When they approached me to be a part of Splitsvilla, I didn’t have to think much. And it is always good to try new things.
You have, in a way, stepped into Sherlyn Chopra’s shoes as she was the host of the sixth season. Ready for comparisons?
As she has hosted the last season, there’s a possibility that the viewers who have watched the last season may compare me with her. But I am a different person altogether, so I am going to bring in my own individuality in the show. I just love romance. I love that feeling of love in the air. And the comparisons don’t really bother me much.
What is your equation with your co-host Nikhil Chinapa?
Initially, when we met he was very quiet. I was the one who kept blabbering. But gradually, he opened up and now we are having fun while shooting the show. The best part is that I am learning a lot from him. He, being an experienced host, had to teach me a lot. I also observe how he conducts himself when the shoot is on— his body language, the way he interacts with the contestants. Believe it or not, I have learnt a lot in the past few days about reality shows.
How different was it shooting for a reality show?
It’s completely different from shooting for a film. In a film, the shot is already ready when the actor goes on the set. You have the dialogues and script with you. In a reality show, everything is spontaneous. You need to improvise. Besides, while shooting for a film, you can watch it immediately on the screen and do a re-take. But in a reality show, you can’t break the momentum. You have to always be attentive and on your toes. The reactions should also be apt to the situation.
Did you find it difficult to be spontaneous?
Not really. The only thing because of which I got a little worked up was talking in Hindi. But I am improving by the day.
Would you like to do another reality show as a contestant?
It really depends on the concept of the show. But I don’t set limits. If I get to do a show that’s interesting enough, I don’t think I would have an issue taking it up.
