In a major jolt to Bollywood fans, veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially exited the much-awaited film Hera Pheri 3, citing creative differences with the makers. The actor, known for his unforgettable portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, confirmed his departure in an interview with Bollywood Hungama, stating plainly, “Yes, it’s a fact.”
This development has left fans heartbroken. Rawal’s hilarious one-liners, iconic mannerisms, and timeless memes have defined the Hera Pheri franchise for over two decades. His chemistry with Akshay Kumar (Raju) and Suniel Shetty (Shyam) was considered the soul of the franchise, making this exit all the more impactful.
What Does This Mean for Hera Pheri 3?
An industry expert shared, “There was a time in 2022 when Akshay Kumar had walked out of the film, which caused massive fan disappointment. But he eventually returned, and we’re hoping something similar could happen with Paresh Rawal. However, if the makers choose to proceed without him, the casting will be extremely critical.”
Who Can Replace Paresh Rawal as Baburao?
Should the makers decide to recast the iconic role, here are five seasoned actors who could possibly fill the legendary shoes of Baburao:
1. Johnny Lever
- Why him? A comedy legend in his own right, Johnny Lever brings electric energy, exaggerated expressions, and proven comic brilliance. He could keep the quirky spirit of Baburao alive while offering a fresh flavor.
2. Sanjay Mishra
- Strengths: Known for offbeat humor and emotional depth, Sanjay Mishra’s ability to blend innocence with madness could resonate deeply with Hera Pheri fans. He offers a unique take on confusion-laced comedy.
3. Pankaj Tripathi
- The subtle genius: With his deadpan humor and sharp timing, Tripathi could reinvent Baburao for today’s generation — subtle, witty, and unpredictable. His version would likely lean toward nuanced comedy over slapstick.
4. Annu Kapoor
- Veteran with versatility: Annu Kapoor’s command over dialogue delivery and his theatrical comic expressions can revive the chaos and quirk of Baburao without forcing imitation. He’s an actor with range and experience.
5. Manoj Pahwa
- Relatable and rhythmic: Known for his expressive face and relatable screen presence, Pahwa could seamlessly fit into Baburao’s slippers. His comic rhythm and warmth could bring both nostalgia and novelty to the character.
🎬 What’s Next for the Franchise?
With Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty still committed to Hera Pheri 3, the film’s momentum remains intact. However, replacing an actor as beloved as Paresh Rawal is no easy task. The audience will inevitably compare performances, making it crucial for the makers to either convince Rawal to return — or reinvent the character in a respectful, fresh way.
