Hera Pheri 3 stars Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, and Suniel Shetty. The film is expected to release in 2026.
Earlier this year, news broke that Paresh Rawal had walked out of the film due to differences with director Priyadarshan. Following this, Akshay Kumar took legal action over the matter. The controversy has been covered a lot in the media, and people are saying that it could all be a publicity stunt to stay in the limelight.
Hera Pheri 3 is back on track with the original trio. In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Akshay Kumar said, “Nahi, yeh publicity stunt nahi hai (No, it is not a publicity stunt). The matter has been done legally, so when legal matters are involved, we cannot call it a publicity stunt; it is a real thing.” He added, But now everything has been sorted out, and the team has come together again. A big announcement related to the film may come after a few days.
Meanwhile, Suniel Shetty has also confirmed that Paresh Rawal is now a part of ‘Hera Pheri 3.’ He said, “Yes, Paresh bhai is back. I am very happy.”
A few days ago, the news of Paresh Rawal’s departure disappointed the fans. Akshay Kumar, who is producing the third installment of the hit comedy franchise through his banner Cape of Good Films, has filed a case against Paresh Rawal and is seeking ₹25 crore in damages. It is learned that Paresh later confirmed his exit from the project by returning the contract amount of Rs 11 lakh along with 15% annual interest.
Paresh Rawal returns for Hera Pheri 3, settles legal dispute
Paresh Rawal later announced his return to the film. While appearing on Himanshu Mehta’s podcast, the veteran actor said, “It was always meant to happen, but we had to work out some things. All of them—Priyadarshan, Akshay, and Sunil—are not just creative minds but also long-time friends.”
Talking about the legal dispute, Paresh Rawal reacted to the controversy and said, “Nothing like this happens. I believe when the audience showers so much love on something, it becomes our responsibility to give our best. You cannot take that love lightly. Work hard and gift them a good film. My opinion was that everyone should come together and work sincerely. That’s all. Now everything is resolved.”
Directed by Priyadarshan, Hera Pheri was first released in 2000, introducing the audience to the iconic trio of Baburao (Paresh Rawal), Raju (Akshay Kumar), and Shyam (Suniel Shetty). The characters returned in the 2006 sequel Phir Hera Pheri, directed by Neeraj Vora. Director Priyadarshan, who directed the first installment, is returning to direct Hera Pheri 3.