Suniel Shetty SHOCKED By Paresh Rawal Quitting ‘Hera Pheri 3’, Reveals How He Found Out About His Exit
Suniel Shetty has called Paresh Rawal’s sudden exit from ‘Hera Pheri 3’ a “crisis,” revealing that even Akshay Kumar is clueless about what went wrong.
The much-awaited ‘Hera Pheri 3’ has been jolted by unexpected drama as veteran actor Paresh Rawal confirmed his exit from the film, leaving co-stars and fans equally stunned. Speculations started swirling last week when several reports claimed Paresh Rawal had backed out of the film that was to reunite him with Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty under Priyadarshan’s direction. Paresh Rawal clarified his decision via social media, denying any creative differences or disputes with the makers.
In a major twist, Hindustan Times reported on Tuesday that Akshay Kumar, who is producing the film under his banner Cape of Good Films, has sent Paresh Rawal a legal notice seeking Rs 25 crores in damages for allegedly sabotaging the production of ‘Hera Pheri 3’.
Now, co-star Suniel Shetty, who is set to reprise his role as Shyam, responded with disbelief over the developments.
Speaking to India Today, Suniel Shetty said even he was clueless about Paresh Rawal’s decision. “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. Even Akshay is clueless as to what happened,” he said.
Suniel Shetty went on to express concern over the future of the film, admitting, “This is a crisis. We are in the middle of this film, and this is the biggest shock. We were going to begin shooting next year. We had already started, in fact. We shot a promo. It’s a big thing. This is so shocking. I can’t make sense of this. And you know who sent it? Athiya and Ahaan - they both sent it to me within 15 minutes, asking ‘papa what is this?’. And I was here doing my interviews, and I felt like ‘holy s***’.”
In a new interview with Mid-Day, Paresh Rawal shut down rumours that his exit stemmed from creative clashes or monetary issues. He said, “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. It is final for the time being. I always say never say never for anything. One cannot predict what happens in the future.”
Paresh Rawal expressed his deep admiration for Priyadarshan, saying, “I love Priyadarshan and have great respect and faith in him as a director. We have done wonderful movies together in the past and will continue to do so. There were no creative differences, nor is there a possibility of having any with him. No amount of money compares to the love and respect of my audience. Right now, I just felt it is a role that I don't want to do, that's all.”
Filmmaker Priyadarshan was equally blindsided by Paresh Rawal’s move. In a statement to Hindustan Times, he shared, “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.”
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.”
A source close to the matter also told the outlet that Paresh’s exit displayed “blatant disregard for professional integrity or commercial morality,” noting that he had accepted the signing amount and allowed the producer to invest in the project before backing out.
The ‘Hera Pheri’ franchise began in 2000 and quickly turned into a cult comedy classic thanks to its hilarious dialogues and iconic trio. The second film, ‘Phir Hera Pheri’ (2006), though not as critically loved, was a commercial hit.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Paresh Rawal is set to appear next in ‘Housefull 5’ alongside Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, and Riteish Deshmukh. The film is slated for a June 6 release.
Meanwhile, Suniel Shetty is preparing for his film ‘Kesari Veer’, which also stars Sooraj Pancholi, Akanksha Sharma, and Vivek Oberoi. It will hit theatres on May 23.
