In a move that has left both fans and industry insiders in complete astonishment, veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially bowed out of Hera Pheri 3. His portrayal of the quirky and beloved Baburao Ganpatrao Apte has long been a cornerstone of the franchise, making his decision all the more impactful. The departure has reignited memories of a similar instance when Rawal exited another major Akshay Kumar project — OMG 2, the sequel to the blockbuster OMG! Oh My God was released in 2012.
Back in 2023, OMG 2 hit theatres with acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi stepping into the lead role in place of Paresh Rawal. Fans were quick to notice Rawal’s absence, and he later revealed that his withdrawal was deliberate. During a candid interview with Bollywood Bubble, Rawal stated plainly, “I didn’t approve of the script, so I chose not to be a part of it.” He criticized the practice of making sequels purely to capitalize on the success of the original, citing Hera Pheri as an example of such a commercial approach. This highlighted Rawal’s deep-rooted belief in meaningful storytelling over box office-driven decisions.
His more recent departure from Hera Pheri 3 has added fuel to an already volatile situation surrounding the film. The third installment, starring Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty, has already suffered from numerous setbacks during its production phase. Now, with Akshay Kumar reportedly holding the official rights to the franchise after acquiring them from Feroz Nadiawala, rumors have emerged suggesting that he may pursue legal action against Rawal, potentially seeking damages worth Rs 25 crore for allegedly jeopardizing the film’s progress.
Addressing the growing speculation, Paresh Rawal spoke with Mid-Day, acknowledging the disappointment among fans. “Yes, I know many people were surprised,” he admitted. “Our trio with director Priyadarshan has always clicked with audiences. But this time, I just don’t feel connected to the project.” He did, however, leave a glimmer of hope by stating, “One can never predict the future,” hinting that the decision might not be set in stone forever.
Meanwhile, director Priyadarshan, returning to the franchise after not helming the previous sequel, has expressed his dismay over the turn of events. In a heartfelt interview with Bombay Times, he revealed, “I honestly have no clue what led to his departure. It was a shock for me. I’m truly hurt.” The veteran filmmaker, who shares a long and trusted relationship with Rawal, was left bewildered by the actor’s decision, especially since no reasons were communicated. “Paresh is like family to me,” he added. “But I don’t understand what’s happening behind the scenes.”
Rawal later took to social media to clarify that his exit was not due to creative clashes. “I wish to clarify that I’ve always respected Mr. Priyadarshan and my decision has nothing to do with creative disagreements,” he posted.
Reacting to reports of Akshay Kumar potentially suing Rawal, Priyadarshan responded, “Naturally.” He explained that Akshay, having bought the rights, has a financial stake in the film. “I have nothing to lose, but Akshay has invested. Maybe that’s why he’s pursuing legal recourse,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Paresh Rawal was last seen in the Raj Trivedi-directed film Jo Tera Hai Woh Mera Hai.
Back in 2023, OMG 2 hit theatres with acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi stepping into the lead role in place of Paresh Rawal. Fans were quick to notice Rawal’s absence, and he later revealed that his withdrawal was deliberate. During a candid interview with Bollywood Bubble, Rawal stated plainly, “I didn’t approve of the script, so I chose not to be a part of it.” He criticized the practice of making sequels purely to capitalize on the success of the original, citing Hera Pheri as an example of such a commercial approach. This highlighted Rawal’s deep-rooted belief in meaningful storytelling over box office-driven decisions.
His more recent departure from Hera Pheri 3 has added fuel to an already volatile situation surrounding the film. The third installment, starring Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty, has already suffered from numerous setbacks during its production phase. Now, with Akshay Kumar reportedly holding the official rights to the franchise after acquiring them from Feroz Nadiawala, rumors have emerged suggesting that he may pursue legal action against Rawal, potentially seeking damages worth Rs 25 crore for allegedly jeopardizing the film’s progress.
Addressing the growing speculation, Paresh Rawal spoke with Mid-Day, acknowledging the disappointment among fans. “Yes, I know many people were surprised,” he admitted. “Our trio with director Priyadarshan has always clicked with audiences. But this time, I just don’t feel connected to the project.” He did, however, leave a glimmer of hope by stating, “One can never predict the future,” hinting that the decision might not be set in stone forever.
Meanwhile, director Priyadarshan, returning to the franchise after not helming the previous sequel, has expressed his dismay over the turn of events. In a heartfelt interview with Bombay Times, he revealed, “I honestly have no clue what led to his departure. It was a shock for me. I’m truly hurt.” The veteran filmmaker, who shares a long and trusted relationship with Rawal, was left bewildered by the actor’s decision, especially since no reasons were communicated. “Paresh is like family to me,” he added. “But I don’t understand what’s happening behind the scenes.”
Rawal later took to social media to clarify that his exit was not due to creative clashes. “I wish to clarify that I’ve always respected Mr. Priyadarshan and my decision has nothing to do with creative disagreements,” he posted.
Reacting to reports of Akshay Kumar potentially suing Rawal, Priyadarshan responded, “Naturally.” He explained that Akshay, having bought the rights, has a financial stake in the film. “I have nothing to lose, but Akshay has invested. Maybe that’s why he’s pursuing legal recourse,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Paresh Rawal was last seen in the Raj Trivedi-directed film Jo Tera Hai Woh Mera Hai.
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