Hera Pheri 3: Priyadarshan opens up on Paresh Rawal’s sudden exit

Paresh Rawal’s character Baburao Ganpatrao Apte is synonymous with the Hera Pheri franchise. So it's no surprise that the actor’s sudden exit from Hera Pheri 3 has left both fans and co-stars shocked. Paresh Rawal recently confirmed rumours that he had quit the upcoming instalment of the comedy franchise, leading to reports that he was being sued by Akshay Kumar for Rs 25 crore. Now, director Priyadarshan has opened up on the controversy and revealed his thoughts on the matter.

While Paresh Rawal had earlier claimed that Priyadarshan had tried to change his mind about exiting Hera Pheri 3, the Bhool Bhulaiyaa director had something different to say. In a recent interview, he claimed that Paresh Rawal did not inform anyone earlier about his wish to quit the film.

Priyadarshan on Paresh Rawal’s exit

Priyadarshan and Paresh Rawal have worked together in several movies such as Hera Pheri, Hungama and the upcoming horror-comedy, Bhoot Bangla. The director, in a chat with Hindustan Times said that he did know why Paresh Rawal had quit the film.

“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 said.

When asked about Akshay Kumar allegedly sending a legal notice to Paresh Rawal for abandoning Hera Pheri 3, the filmmaker added "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."

Akshay is involved in producing Hera Pheri 3. He bought the rights from producer Feroz Nadiadwala.

Suniel Shetty shocked at Paresh Rawal’s exit

Earlier, Suniel Shetty had expressed his surprise at Paresh Rawal’s exit. He said that he had “no clue” about his co-star’s intention to quit the film. “This is absolutely shocking. I first thought about texting him, and then I thought I'd meet him and would discuss it. I have had no word about it with anybody as to what happened,” Shetty told India Today. He had also revealed that a promo had been shot for Hera Pheri 3.

Paresh Rawal on his exit from Hera Pheri 3

In a statement a few days ago, Paresh Rawal had said that he had quit the project. He dismissed any speculation about creative differences, adding that he had immense respect for Priyadarshan.


The actor’s move has put Hera Pheri 3 in jeopardy. As of now, there is no update on whether Paresh Rawal could rejoin the franchise.