"Not a Stunt": Akshay Kumar Clears the Air on Hera Pheri 3 Dispute

Actor Akshay Kumar has addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding Hera Pheri 3, dismissing rumours that the legal dispute involving co-star Paresh Rawal was a publicity stunt. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Akshay Kumar clarified that the situation was genuine and not orchestrated to generate buzz.

"No, this wasn't a publicity stunt. Things went legal, so it cannot be one," he stated firmly.

Behind the Scenes: A Turbulent Journey

The third installment of the beloved Hera Pheri franchise has faced a rollercoaster of developments since 2022, when Akshay Kumar initially exited the project due to creative differences. This move fueled speculation that Kartik Aaryan would step in as a replacement.

However, Kumar later surprised fans by returning to the film, reuniting with Paresh Rawal and Suniel Shetty in a promotional shoot-reviving hopes of seeing the original trio back in action.

Legal Dispute and Reconciliation

Earlier this year, reports emerged suggesting that Paresh Rawal had exited the film, allegedly due to differences with director Priyadarshan-claims which Rawal denied. Tensions escalated when Akshay Kumar, who holds rights to the franchise, reportedly took legal action against Rawal, prompting the actor to return his signing fee.

Thankfully, the dispute has since been resolved. Recent reports confirm that Rawal is back on board, and development on Hera Pheri 3 has resumed.

"Thoda bahaut ho gaya tha upar niche (things went a little south), but now everything is resolved," Kumar said, reaffirming the longstanding bond between the original cast.

What's Next for Hera Pheri 3?

With the internal issues ironed out, Kumar hinted that official announcements about Hera Pheri 3 could be made soon. Fans of the cult comedy franchise can now look forward to seeing the iconic trio-Raju, Shyam, and Baburao-back on screen more than two decades after the first film charmed audiences in 2000.