Shah Rukh to replace Bachchan as "Millionaire" host

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan will replace iconic actor Amitabh Bachchan as the host of "Kaun Banega Crorepati", the Indian version of popular quiz show "Who Wants to Be A Millionaire", a statement said.

The hit show, which ran for two series and was broadcast by Rupert Murdoch's Star Network, was hugely popular but was taken off the air in January after Bachchan, 65, had stomach surgery.

"Bachchan expressed his inability to shoot with us any further, and we respected that," said Sameer Nair, chief executive of Star Entertainment India.

"It is a huge act to follow, that of Mr Bachchan," said Khan, 42 and one of Bollywood's leading hearthrobs. No date was given for the start of filming.