The Hera Pheri franchise, a cornerstone of Bollywood comedy, faces a major setback as Paresh Rawal, beloved for his iconic role as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, has confirmed his exit from Hera Pheri 3. The news, announced on May 18, 2025, has left fans reeling and sparked a storm of speculation, with reports of a fee dispute and legal action by co-star and producer Akshay Kumar. Directed by Priyadarshan, the film was set to reunite the OG trio—Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal—but now faces an uncertain future. Here’s a deep dive into the controversy, Rawal’s reasons, and what lies ahead for this cult classic series.
Why Did Paresh Rawal Quit Hera Pheri 3?
In a recent interview with a leading publication, Paresh Rawal clarified that his departure wasn’t due to creative differences, as initially speculated. “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,” he said. He emphasized that no amount of money could compare to his audience’s love, dismissing rumors of a Rs 25 crore fee demand. Rawal added, “It is final for the time being. I always say never say never for anything,” leaving a sliver of hope for fans. He also noted that director Priyadarshan tried to convince him to stay, but Rawal stood firm, citing a personal disconnect with the role.
The Fee Dispute and Legal Drama
Reports suggest a rift between Paresh Rawal and Akshay Kumar, who is also producing Hera Pheri 3 after acquiring the rights from Feroz Nadiadwala. Sources claim Rawal demanded Rs 25 crore for his role, believing Baburao’s nostalgia warranted a hefty fee, which irked Kumar. Consequently, Kumar’s production house, Cape of Good Films, issued a legal notice to Rawal, seeking Rs 25 crore in damages for “abandoning and sabotaging” the project after filming a promotional video. The notice cites losses from investments made with the assurance of the original trio’s involvement.
Reactions from the Team and Fans
Suniel Shetty, in an exclusive interview, expressed shock, calling Rawal’s exit a “big crisis” for the film. “I have no clue about this. Even Akshay is clueless as to what happened,” he said, noting that the team was mid-production, making the departure particularly disruptive. Director Priyadarshan, hurt by the sudden exit, told a major outlet, “Paresh was like family. He hasn’t given me any explanation,” adding that he suspects a “huge conspiracy” but hasn’t been able to reach Rawal.
Fans on social media platforms are devastated, with many demanding the film be shelved without Baburao. Posts like “No Paresh Rawal, No Hera Pheri Franchise” and calls for Akshay and Suniel to bring him back reflect the sentiment. Some fans even criticized the makers, with one writing, “Repetitive jokes are boring. Hera Pheri 3 should never come.”
The Hera Pheri Legacy
The Hera Pheri franchise, starting with the 2000 cult classic directed by Priyadarshan, is cherished for its slapstick humor and iconic trio—Raju (Akshay Kumar), Shyam (Suniel Shetty), and Baburao (Paresh Rawal). The 2006 sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, directed by Neeraj Vora, was a commercial hit despite mixed reviews. Hera Pheri 3, announced in 2023, faced hurdles, including Akshay’s initial exit and Kartik Aaryan’s rumored involvement before Priyadarshan’s return. Filming began in April 2025, but Rawal’s departure has cast a shadow over its future.
What’s Next for Hera Pheri 3?
Rawal’s exit leaves Hera Pheri 3 in limbo, with no official word on whether the makers will recast Baburao or halt production. Priyadarshan has ruled out replacing Rawal for now, stating, “I’m just shocked.” Meanwhile, Rawal is set to star in Housefull 5, releasing June 6, 2025, alongside Akshay Kumar, suggesting their professional paths may cross again despite the tension. Fans hope for a resolution, as Baburao’s absence risks diluting the franchise’s magic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Paresh Rawal quit Hera Pheri 3?
Paresh Rawal cited a personal disconnect with the role, denying creative differences or fee issues, though reports suggest a Rs 25 crore demand led to a dispute with Akshay Kumar.
Is Akshay Kumar suing Paresh Rawal?
Yes, Akshay Kumar’s production house has reportedly issued a legal notice seeking Rs 25 crore for Rawal’s alleged unprofessional exit after filming began.
Will Hera Pheri 3 still be made?
The film’s future is uncertain. Fans and Suniel Shetty have called Rawal’s exit a crisis, and no replacement has been confirmed.
