Pankaj Tripathi sets record straight on 'Hera Pheri 3' rumours

Pankaj Tripathi has debunked rumours about taking on the role of Babu Rao in the much-awaited Hera Pheri 3, following Paresh Rawal’s unexpected withdrawal.

The OMG 2 actor, who starred alongside Akshay Kumar in the 2023 comedy-drama, addressed fans’ demands for him to portray Babu Rao in the upcoming sequel.

In an exclusive conversation with Bollywood Hungama, Tripathi said, “That is something I have also heard and read, but I don’t believe in it. Paresh ji is an amazing actor. I am zero in front of him. I respect him a lot. I don’t think I am the right person for the role.”

This comes on the heels of Rawal, 69, stepping down from Hera Pheri 3 earlier this week, which has sparked legal claims surrounding his decision.

Taking to his X handle, formerly Twitter, the Bhagam Bhag star wrote, “I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences. 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.”

In light of the situation, Suniel Shetty and Priyadarshan have also expressed their shock over Rawal’s hasty decision.

For the unversed, the Mirzapur actor is currently gearing up for Criminal Justice season four, which is slated for release on May 29.