Hera Pheri 3: Pankaj Tripathi to REPLACE Paresh Rawal? 'I am zero...'

Hera Pheri 3 is one of the most awaited franchises that fans are eagerly waiting for. After the news broke out that actor Paresh Rawal has marked his exit from the film, fans suggested who will play the role of the next Babu Bhaiya in Priyardarshan-directed comedy. Actor Pankaj's name has been popped up as a suitable match for the character. Here's what we know.

In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, the Gangs Of Wasseypur actor was asked if netizens feel he should be cast in Hera Pheri 3. He said, "That is something I have also heard and read. I don't believe in it. Paresh ji is an amazing actor. I am zero in front of him. I respect him a lot. I don't think I am the right person for the role."

As per reports, Akshay Kumar through his production house, Cape of Good Films, sent a legal notice to actor Paresh and claimed Rs 25 crores in damages for grossly unprofessional conduct and leaving Hera Pheri 3 after signing a legal contract and starting film's shoot. On Sunday, Paresh took to X (formerly called Twitter) and confirmed that he did not quit the film due to creative differences with director Priyadarshan. He wrote, "I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences. I REITERATE THAT THERE ARE NO CREATIVE DISAGREEMENTS WITH THE FILMMAKER. I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Mr Priyadarshan, the film's director."

On the work front, Pankaj will soon be seen in Criminal Justice 4 along with Barkha Singh, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Surveen Chawla, Mita Vasisht, Asha Negi, Shweta Basu Prasad and Khushboo Atre. The show will stream on JioHotstar from May 29.