The much-loved Hera Pheri film series is facing unexpected drama, not on screen but behind the scenes. A legal fight has started between lead actor Akshay Kumar and co-star Paresh Rawal after Rawal decided to walk out of Hera Pheri 3. Akshay’s production company, Cape of Good Films, says this sudden exit has caused major financial loss and damage to the movie’s reputation.
Why is Akshay Kumar Suing Paresh Rawal?
As per a legal notice from Cape of Good Films, Paresh Rawal had officially agreed to work in Hera Pheri 3 by signing a term sheet on March 27, 2025. He also took a signing amount of Rs 11 lakh. After that, he took part in a teaser shoot on April 3 and filmed more than three minutes of scenes with Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty. He even joined creative discussions about the movie.
However, Rawal later backed out of the film, saying he was not creatively satisfied with the project. Akshay’s team says this reason is unclear and unfair. They claim that Rawal’s sudden exit has caused Rs 25 crore in losses, including delays, wasted production money, and confusion for the rest of the cast and crew.
The notice also says if the issue is not resolved within seven days, they may take civil and criminal action against Rawal.
Paresh Rawal Responds to the Allegations
Paresh Rawal replied to the claims in a statement on X (formerly Twitter). He said that his exit had nothing to do with money or creative issues. “No amount of money compares to the love and respect of my audience. Right now, I just feel that it is a role I don’t want to do, that’s all,” he wrote.
Rawal’s lawyer, Ameet Naik, has already sent a legal response to Akshay’s team. Rawal also returned the Rs 11 lakh with 15% annual interest and added an extra payment as a gesture of goodwill. He says he has not broken any contract and has done nothing wrong.
What the Director and Co-stars Say
Director Priyadarshan, who made the original Hera Pheri in 2000 and is directing the third part, said he was shocked by Rawal’s decision. “Akshay asked me to confirm with Paresh and Suniel before we started, and both had agreed. I don’t know why this happened. Paresh didn’t talk to me at all,” he told Hindustan Times.
Suniel Shetty, another key actor in the franchise, also said he was surprised. He mentioned that a promotional shoot had already been completed, and Rawal’s exit came without warning.
The Impact on the Movie and Fans
Cape of Good Films’ legal team explained how the project has suffered. The shooting schedule was disturbed, other actors’ dates were wasted, and money spent on logistics, staff, and teaser production was lost.
Pooja Tidke, the lawyer for Cape of Good Films, said, “This has hurt the goodwill of the Hera Pheri franchise, the cast’s reputation, and disappointed the fans.”
She also said that walking out after committing to the film is a serious breach of contract and goes against the trust built over the years.
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