In an unexpected development shaking up the Bollywood comedy space, veteran actor Paresh Rawal is said to have exited Hera Pheri 3, sparking a legal storm. Akshay Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Films, has reportedly served a legal notice to Rawal, demanding ₹25 crore in damages for alleged breach of contract.
The much-anticipated third instalment of the iconic franchise is being directed by Priyadarshan, who recently confirmed that Akshay personally ensured the return of the original trio — Paresh Rawal, Suniel Shetty and himself — before the project took off.
“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,” Priyadarshan is learnt to have told Hindustan Times. “I don’t have anything to lose but Akshay has invested money and that could be the reason why he is taking this action. Paresh Rawal hasn’t spoken to me till date,” he is reported to have added.
According to reports, the legal notice came only after Paresh Rawal had formally signed on and even begun shooting. Reports also suggest that Rawal was being compensated at a rate significantly higher than his usual fee.
However, in a candid chat with Mid-Day, Paresh Rawal addressed the situation. “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,” confirms the actor. Many hope that the actor changes his mind. While he remains firm in his decision for now, he has left the future undecided. “It is final for the time being. I always say never say never for anything. One cannot predict what happens in the future,” he smiles.
Paresh Rawal also posted about it on X. “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”, he wrote on the social media platform.
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.
— Paresh Rawal (@SirPareshRawal) May 18, 2025
Note that Priyadarshan, who has also cast both Rawal and Kumar in the upcoming horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla, revealed he hasn’t spoken to the actor since his departure from Hera Pheri 3.
Reacting to Paresh Rawal’s post, Bollywood PR expert Dale Bhagwagar weighed in with a cautious note of concern. “Hope this is not a publicity stunt,” he remarked on X, probably subtly pointing at how the industry sometimes leverages controversy for traction.
Hope this is not a publicity stunt.
— Dale Bhagwagar (@DaleBhagwagar) May 22, 2025
Known for his expertise in image-building and crisis management, Dale Bhagwagar’s remark carries weight in an industry where public perception often drives success.
As the legal proceedings may unfold and speculations swirl, the fate of Hera Pheri 3 and its original magic hangs in balance. Whether this episode ends in reconciliation or sets a new course for the franchise, remains to be seen.
