The future of Hera Pheri 3 is uncertain after veteran actor Paresh Rawal announced his exit from the film on May 18. Rawal, who played the iconic Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in the first two films, denied any creative differences and expressed his love and respect for director Priyadarshan. However, co-lead and producer Akshay Kumar's production house, Cape of Good Films, issued a legal notice accusing Rawal of breach of contract and seeking ₹25 crore in damages. Rawal has since returned the signing amount with 15% annual interest.
The controversy surrounding Rawal's exit has raised doubts about the film's future. Director Priyadarshan and co-lead Suniel Shetty have expressed their disappointment, with Priyadarshan questioning Rawal's decision. While Suniel Shetty has hinted at the possibility of Rawal's return, industry insiders seem doubtful.
According to reports, Priyadarshan and Kumar are unlikely to move ahead without Rawal, but other media houses suggest that the makers are looking to recast Rawal's iconic role. With the film's fate hanging in the balance, fans are eagerly waiting to see if Hera Pheri 3 will get made.
The legal notice from Cape of Good Films has added fuel to the fire, with Rawal's exit sparking a heated debate about the film's future. Rawal's total remuneration for the film was set at ₹15 crore, with ₹14.89 crore to be paid one month post-release. The unusual clause has raised questions about the film's production and the relationships between the cast and crew.