‘It’s End of An Era’ ACP Pradyuman’s Death Confirmed by CID Makers, Fans Express Outrage
In a significant development that has stirred strong reactions from long-time viewers, the makers of the iconic television series CID have confirmed the departure and apparent death of ACP Pradyuman, one of Indian television’s most enduring characters.
The announcement came via Sony TV’s official Instagram handle on Saturday, featuring an image of actor Shivaji Satam as ACP Pradyuman with the caption: “In loving memory of ACP Pradyuman… A loss that will never be forgotten.” The post also carried the text: “End of an era. ACP Pradyuman (1998–2025),” confirming that the character had been written off after nearly 27 years.
The news follows the broadcast of a recent episode in which the senior cop was seemingly killed in an explosion while pursuing the show’s long-standing antagonist Barboza, played by Tigmanshu Dhulia. However, no visuals of the character’s death were shown—no body, no final dialogue—leaving fans clinging to hope that this may not be the end.
Social media has since been flooded with emotional reactions. Many viewers expressed disbelief and disappointment, not only at the character’s departure but also at the manner in which the exit was portrayed.
“This post broke our hearts,” one Instagram user commented. “We were waiting for a plot twist, and you do this to our most iconic ACP sir? No, I’m not accepting it.”
Another user went further, declaring, “It’s not RIP to ACP Pradyuman. It’s RIP to CID. And RIP to Sony TV. You buried a legacy.”
Criticism was largely directed at the show’s creators for giving an abrupt and undignified send-off to a character who had become a cultural icon over nearly three decades. Viewers argued that ACP Pradyuman deserved a more fitting farewell—one that reflected his contributions to the team and his stature in the storyline.
“Even if Shivaji sir wanted to leave,” wrote one user, “you still had a choice. You could have given him the farewell he deserved. Show him catching Barboza, then retiring with honour.”
Amid the swirling reactions, Shivaji Satam himself appeared uncertain about the character’s fate. In a statement to Bombay Times, he said, “I have no clue about this. I have taken a break for some time and the makers know what lies ahead in the show. If my track is over, I am okay with it. However, I have not been told whether my track is over or not.”
The lack of clarity has only intensified fan speculation. The absence of definitive visuals depicting Pradyuman’s death has fuelled theories that the character may return in a future plot twist.
Despite being off-air for several years, CID returned with renewed interest on digital platforms and special episodes, continuing to draw a loyal fanbase. ACP Pradyuman’s signature lines—“Darwaza tod do!” and his iconic glare—remain etched in the memories of multiple generations of viewers.
As the outcry grows, it remains to be seen whether the makers will respond to the public sentiment and offer a more conclusive end or even a surprise revival. For now, fans are left with nostalgia, unanswered questions, and a fierce debate over how legacies should be handled on television.
