May 20, 2025: The Hera Pheri 3 controversy continues to snowball as veteran actor Suniel Shetty has now broken his silence on Paresh Rawal’s unexpected departure from the much-anticipated film. In a recent interview, Shetty expressed complete shock and confusion, revealing that even co-star Akshay Kumar is unaware of what led to Paresh’s decision to walk away.
Also Read: No More Baburao? Paresh Rawal’s Exit From Hera Pheri 3 Sparks Massive Legal Battle
“This is absolutely shocking,” Shetty said. “I first thought about texting him, then I thought I’d meet him and discuss it. I have had no word about it with anybody. Even Akshay is clueless as to what happened.”
Suniel went on to call the situation a “crisis,” especially given the film’s current stage of production. He revealed that the trio—Akshay, Paresh, and himself—had already shot a promotional teaser for Hera Pheri 3 and were gearing up to begin the main shoot next year.
“We had already started, in fact. We shot a promo. It’s a big thing,” Shetty stated. He also shared that he was caught off guard when his children, Athiya and Ahaan Shetty, sent him the news within minutes. “They both sent it to me, asking ‘Papa, what is this?’ And I was here doing my interviews and felt like, ‘holy s***.’”
Contradicting Narratives
Earlier, Paresh Rawal shocked fans by announcing his exit from the film. While initial rumors suggested creative or financial disagreements, the actor clarified that his decision was purely personal.
“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,” Rawal said, adding that there were no creative disputes.
However, director Priyadarshan claimed in a separate interview that Paresh never informed the team. “He hasn’t spoken to me till date,” he said, backing Akshay Kumar’s legal notice to Rawal seeking ₹25 crore in damages for exiting after filming had begun.
About the Franchise
Hera Pheri 3 is the next installment in one of Bollywood’s most iconic comedy franchises, which began with the cult classic Hera Pheri in 2000. The trio of Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, and Suniel Shetty became household names thanks to their unforgettable characters and comic timing.
Now, with conflicting accounts from the director and cast members, the future of Hera Pheri 3 hangs in uncertainty