Hera Pheri 3 controversy explained: Paresh Rawal’s exit to Akshay Kumar’s legal

An actor walking out of a film might seem like a common occurrence. But that’s not the case when it involves a popular and highly anticipated franchise — especially when the actor has immortalized a beloved role. That is exactly the situation with Paresh Rawal walking out of Hera Pheri 3, months after the promo was shot and the lead cast was locked in. The film, directed by Priyadarshan, was set to reunite the OG cast including Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty. However, the fate of the film now appears to be in jeopardy following Rawal’s exit.

Team was unaware of Paresh`s intention to walk out 

Paresh Rawal`s decision to walkout of the film came as a surprise not just to fans of the franchise but also to the team, including Priyadarshan, Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty. 

Reacting to Rawal`s exit, Priyadarshan said that he was unaware of the actor`s decision to leave the film. He told Hindustan Times, “I don`t know why this happened because Paresh didn`t inform us. Before starting the film, Akshay asked me to check with both Paresh and Suniel, and I did, and both were on board.”

Suniel mentioned that he got to know about Paresh walking away from the film through his kids Athiya and Ahaan Shetty. He told India Today, “We were going to begin shooting next year. We had already started, in fact. We shot a promo. It`s a big thing. This is so shocking. I can`t make sense of this. And you know who sent it? Athiya and Ahaan – they both sent it to me within 15 minutes, asking `Papa, what is this?`. And I was here doing my interviews, and I felt like `holy s***`.”

Akshay Kumar sues Paresh Rawal

Following Rawal’s departure, Akshay Kumar has reportedly taken legal action against his co-star, suing him for ₹25 crore. According to a report in Hindustan Times, Rawal received a legal notice claiming damages due to what is being described as unprofessional conduct. The notice states that the actor exited the film midway, despite signing legal agreements and commencing shooting.

In a conversation with Bollywood Hungama, director Priyadarshan revealed that Akshay Kumar had personally invested a significant amount to acquire the rights for Hera Pheri. He also confirmed that all actors, including Paresh Rawal, had received advance payments.

Paresh Rawal on leaving the third installment 

Paresh Rawal told Mid-day, “I know it came as a shock to many. We three make a great combination with Priyadarshanji directing us, but the fact is that I opted out because today I don’t feel like a part of it”.

He further said, “Priyadarshan ji tried to change my mind but he knows [me]. They all know that if I decide on something, I will follow it up. So they don’t pursue further.”

There is also conjecture that Rawal was not content with his remuneration. But the actor says that was never the issue. “No amount of money compares to the love and respect of my audience. Right now, I just felt that it is a role I don’t want to do, that’s all,” he reiterated. 

Will there be a Hera Pheri 3 without Paresh Rawal?

Priyadarshan also expressed disappointment over Rawal not communicating his exit directly. “When I heard about his decision, I messaged him to ask what happened. He replied saying I shouldn’t try to call him because he didn’t want to talk about it, and that he didn’t want to disrespect me. Is this how you show respect? I am very, very hurt,” the filmmaker told Bollywood Hungama.

As for whether the film will move forward without Rawal, Priyadarshan didn’t mince words. Clearly frustrated, he said, “I don’t give a f**k. I don’t care whether it’s made or not. I was doing it for Akshay. I really don’t want to work anymore. I have some commitments to fulfill. I’ve just completed Bhoot Bungla with Akshay, and I have a film with Akshay and Saif that I’m committed to direct. Beyond that, I don’t need this kind of tension. I’d rather play with my grandchild than make movies with unprofessional actors.”

This article first appeared on Mid Day