Priyadarshan CONFIRMS Exit From ‘Hera Pheri 3’, Says Akshay Kumar-Starrer May Never Hit the Screens

In a major blow to fans eagerly awaiting the third instalment of the iconic 'Hera Pheri' franchise, esteemed director Priyadarshan has officially distanced himself from Hera Pheri 3. The filmmaker, known for helming the cult classic original, not only confirmed his exit but also shared a pessimistic outlook on the film's future, citing numerous obstacles. ‘Don’t Know if Hera Pheri 3 Will Be Made’: Lyricist Sameer Anjaan Opens Up About Akshay Kumar-Priyadarshan’s Upcoming Comedy Film.

Priyadarshan Announces Exit from Hera Pheri 3

Speaking exclusively to HT City on June 29, 2026, Priyadarshan stated, “What Feroze has said, is true. I am not associated with Hera Pheri 3 at the present.” This statement comes after producer Firoz Nadiadwala had previously indicated the director's departure. Priyadarshan elaborated on his reasons, revealing a deep concern for the project's viability. “To the best of my knowledge, Hera Pheri 3 will never hit the screen due to lots of legal issues and personal conflicts. Whether I am involved or not is unimportant,” he added.

This marks a significant shift from earlier reports. In January 2025, it was confirmed that Priyadarshan would be directing the third film. However, his recent comments underscore the persistent turmoil surrounding the film, echoing his sentiments from March 2026, where he acknowledged that the project was "stuck due to unresolved legal disputes."

Despite Priyadarshan's grim assessment, producer Firoz Nadiadwala remains optimistic. In an interview with Variety India, Nadiadwala confirmed Priyadarshan's exit but assured fans, "Things are on track and moving in the right direction."

More About the Troubled Production of Hera Pheri 3

The journey to bring Hera Pheri 3 to the big screen has been fraught with challenges. The film aims to reunite the beloved trio of Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal, who starred in the 2000 original 'Hera Pheri' and its 2006 sequel 'Phir Hera Pheri'.

Key issues plaguing the production include a significant legal dispute over the franchise rights. Seven Arts International, a South Indian production house, claims ownership of the 'Hera Pheri' franchise characters and rights, a claim disputed by Firoz Nadiadwala. This rights battle has been a primary cause for the film's delays and uncertainties.

Furthermore, the project has faced directorial changes and cast uncertainties. While Farhad Samji was initially reported to be directing when a quiet shoot began in February 2023, Priyadarshan was later announced as director in January 2025, only to now confirm his exit. The role of Paresh Rawal, iconic as Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, also saw a brief exit in May 2025 before his return by July 2025. Recent reports of his re-exit in May 2026 were subsequently fact-checked as inaccurate, confirming his continued association with the film. Did Paresh Rawal EXIT ‘Hera Pheri 3’ Again? Director Priyadarshan Breaks Silence.

Despite the producer's assurances, the absence of a confirmed director and the ongoing legal complexities cast a long shadow over the future of 'Hera Pheri 3', leaving fans to wonder if Raju, Shyam, and Baburao will ever return for another laugh riot.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 29, 2026 03:53 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).