Hansal Mehta, the director and co-creator of the upcoming corporate drama Family Business, has spoken out against comparisons with global shows such as Succession and Billions. The show, set to arrive on Netflix in 2026, has been drawing parallels with the hit series due to its corporate setting, but Mehta is quick to shut down these comparisons, calling them ‘lazy’.
Mehta’s statement comes in response to the initial reactions to the show’s announcement, with many fans drawing similarities between Family Business and Succession. However, Mehta is adamant that the show is not inspired by or adapted from the hit HBO series. ‘Lazy comparisons,’ Mehta said. ‘Liking Succession or Billions doesn’t make every story about power or families a remake.’
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Mehta went on to explain that while a corporate setting may invite superficial similarities, Family Business is a unique story with its own identity, rooted in a different socio-cultural, emotional, and economic world. ‘A corporate backdrop may invite surface-level comparisons, but Family Business is not adapted from, inspired by, or remotely similar to Succession in its story, plot, or characters,’ Mehta stated. The show follows a visionary billionaire who handpicks a successor, only to reclaim control months later, triggering a ruthless battle for power marked by betrayal, fractured alliances, and long-buried secrets.
Family Business is positioned as a high-stakes drama centred on a corporate succession war within one of India’s most powerful business families. Created by Mehta and Niren Bhatt, and directed by Mehta, the series is produced by Abundantia Entertainment and True Story Films. The ensemble cast includes Anil Kapoor, Vijay Varma, Akash Khurana, Rhea Chakraborty, Neha Dhupia, Anant Nag, Kanwaljit Singh, Raima Sen, Madhoo Shah, and others. With its announcement already sparking debate, Family Business is set to arrive on Netflix in 2026.
The show’s announcement has already generated a lot of buzz, with fans eager to see what the series has in store. While some fans may be disappointed by the lack of similarity to Succession, others are excited to see Mehta’s take on the corporate world. As the release date approaches, fans can expect to see more information and teasers about the show. For now, it’s clear that Family Business is a unique and exciting addition to Netflix’s slate of original content.
Mehta’s comments also highlight the importance of originality in storytelling. In an industry where remakes and adaptations are increasingly popular, Mehta’s commitment to creating an original story is a refreshing one. By doing so, he is able to bring a fresh perspective to the corporate drama genre, one that is unique to India’s socio-cultural context. Fans can expect a thrilling ride with Family Business, one that is sure to keep them on the edge of their seats.
