Akshay Kumar slams Paresh Rawal with legal notice over 'Hera Pheri 3' exit

Akshay Kumar has reportedly filed a legal claim against his co-star Paresh Rawal over the latter’s shocking withdrawal from the much-awaited sequel of the Hera Pheri franchise.

The Indian actors, who starred as Raju and Babu Rao in the original comedy film, are said to be in a rift ahead of the highly anticipated project.

A source close to the development reported, “Paresh displayed a blatant disregard for professional integrity or commercial morality”.

Amid the ongoing turmoil, Indian filmmaker Priyadarshan also broke his silence during an exclusive interaction with the Hindustan Times.

Speaking to the outlet, the director said, “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 onboard. Paresh Rawal hasn’t spoken to me till date.”

This comes on the heels of Rawal, 69, stepping down from Hera Pheri 3 shortly before production was set to begin.

Taking to his X handle, formerly Twitter, he tweeted, “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative difference. I REITERATE THAT THERE ARE NO CREATIVE DISAGREEMENT WITH THE FILM MAKER. I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr. Priyadarshan the film director.”

It is pertinent to mention that Akshay’s production house, Cape of Good Films, has reportedly sent a legal notice to Rawal worth ₹25 crore, citing unprofessional behaviour.

For the unversed, the Kesari Chapter 2 actor recently wrapped up shooting his upcoming film Bhoot Bangla, which also features Rawal.