Paresh Rawal Addresses Legal Dispute with Akshay Kumar Over Hera Pheri 3 Exit
Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has publicly responded to the legal controversy surrounding his sudden departure from the much-anticipated film Hera Pheri 3, the third chapter of the beloved comedy franchise that began in 2000. The film, which features Akshay Kumar as both a star and producer, has been rocked by Rawal’s exit, prompting legal action from Kumar’s production company, Cape of Good Films.
In a statement shared on X on Sunday, Rawal addressed the issue, asserting that his legal team has provided a formal response to the claims made against him. “My lawyer, Ameet Naik, has sent an appropriate response regarding my rightful termination and exit. Once they read my response, all issues will be laid to rest,” Rawal wrote. Naik, a prominent lawyer known for representing industry heavyweights like Amitabh Bachchan and Anil Kapoor, is handling the matter on Rawal’s behalf.
The legal dispute stems from Rawal’s unexpected withdrawal from Hera Pheri 3, a project that had already begun production under director Priyadarshan, who also helmed the original 2000 film. Kumar’s legal representative, Pooja Tidke of Parinam Law Associates, highlighting the financial and logistical impact of Rawal’s decision. “I think there will be severe legal consequences. It’s of course hurt the franchise. We have written to him letting him know that there are a lot of legal consequences involved,” Tidke said. She noted that expenses had been incurred for the cast, crew, senior actors, logistics, equipment, and a trailer shoot, with approximately three-and-a-half minutes of the film already shot. Tidke emphasized that Rawal had previously confirmed his commitment to the project, including through contracts signed for the trailer shoot.
Rawal, celebrated for his iconic portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in Hera Pheri (2000) and its 2006 sequel Phir Hera Pheri, has been a cornerstone of the franchise’s success. The first film, directed by Priyadarshan, became a cult classic, while the second was led by the late Neeraj Vora. Fans and industry insiders alike have expressed disappointment over Rawal’s exit, which has cast uncertainty over the future of Hera Pheri 3.
