Akshay Kumar recently hit headlines after being replaced by Kartik Aaryan in the much-awaited Hera Pheri 3.
The 55-year-old actor revealed that he opted out of the movie as he wasn’t happy with the script.
It was also claimed that the difference in the remuneration charged by both the actors is said to be the reason behind Akshay‘s exit. While Kartik charged Rs 30 crores, the Khiladi Kumar had quoted Rs 90 crores for the movie.
Now, if this Bollywood Hungama report is to be believed, producer Firoz Nadiadwala has dropped Akshay from Welcome 3 and Awara Paagal Deewana 2 as he is allegedly upset with Akshay over his statement on Hera Pheri 3.
“After Akshay Kumar publicly claimed that he’s exiting Hera Pheri 3 because of problems in the script, Firoz was disappointed and hurt. He has now decided to go ahead with Awara Paagal Deewana 2 and Welcome 3 without Akshay. The priority, however, would be on Hera Pheri 3 right now.”
– a source informed the portal.
“Akshay Kumar was hurt over not being able to be a part of Hera Pheri’s next instalment since the franchise holds a special place in his career. However, Firoz Nadiadwala was just being practical. Akshay refused to lower his price. This can’t be a one-way street; it’s not fair that only Akshay makes money while the producer incurs losses. And post-pandemic, one has no choice but to lower his/her remuneration. Firoz tried explaining this to Akshay but he didn’t relent. With no other choice, Firoz Nadiadwala got Kartik Aaryan on board for Hera Pheri 3. This is when Akshay Kumar realized that Firoz actually meant business.”
“Firoz had made it clear to Akshay Kumar that he was the first choice for both these highly exciting sequels. He was hoping that he and Akshay could sit down and work on the commercials so that it benefited everyone.”
– the source concluded.
Recently, at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit 2022, Akshay stated that Hera Pheri has been a huge part of his career and that he has great memories of it.
He said – “Hera Pheri has been a part of me. Like a lot of people, I have good memories. Mujhe bhi dukh hota hai (I feel bad as well) that in so many years, part 3 hasn’t been made. But like I said we have to dismantle things. The film was offered to me but I was not satisfied with the script. I have to do what people want to see. That is why, I backed out. I took a step behind. It is a part of my life and journey for me. I am also very sad that I can’t do it. But I am not happy with how the creative things have shaped out.”