New Case, Same Lawyer: Pankaj Tripathi Returns in Criminal Justice Season 4
Disney+ Hotstar has officially announced the release of criminal justice season 4, a legal drama with Pankaj Tripathi returning to reprise his celebrated role as defense lawyer Madhav Mishra. The streaming giant made the announcement on Friday, sparking anticipation among fans who have followed the show’s journey since its debut in 2018.
Adapted from the 2008 British television series of the same name, criminal justice season 4 made its Indian debut under the creative direction of Applause Entertainment and BBC Studios India. The show quickly found its footing thanks to its hard-hitting themes, courtroom tension, and Tripathi’s compelling performance. Each season has presented a self-contained narrative, tackling a range of social and legal dilemmas, from domestic abuse to juvenile crime.
The second season, Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors (2020), received widespread praise for addressing issues of marital abuse and the mental trauma of women caught in the legal crossfire. The third installment, Criminal Justice: Adhura Sach (2022), took on a sensitive case involving a minor and highlighted the limitations of the juvenile justice system in India.
Criminal Justice season 4 – Pankaj Tripathi as Madhav Mishra
Central to the show’s appeal is Pankaj Tripathi’s Madhav Mishra — a character who may not fit the mould of a high-profile legal eagle, but whose humility, wit, and tenacity have consistently unraveled the truth in complex cases. With his disheveled appearance, mild manner, and street-smart approach, Mishra has become one of the most relatable and beloved characters on Indian streaming platforms.
In earlier interviews, Tripathi described the role as “both challenging and deeply fulfilling,” noting that Mishra’s empathy and sense of justice reflect the real struggles of many everyday lawyers in India. “He’s flawed, but he never gives up on his clients,” the actor once said.
While the makers have yet to reveal details about the plot or supporting cast of criminal justice season 4, Disney+ Hotstar released a teaser image on Instagram, with the tagline: “Every case hides a truth. Madhav Mishra is back to find it.” The cryptic message hints at yet another layered courtroom saga filled with emotional depth and moral ambiguity.
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