When Bollywood actors walk out of films: From Paresh Rawal in Hera Pheri 3 to Sushant Singh Rajput, what happens when stars exit big projects?

Dubai: Seasoned Bollywood actor Paresh Rawal's abrupt exit from Hera Pheri 3 has sparked a Rs250 million legal notice—but he's not the first actor to face the wrath of producers for bailing on a film. Here's a breakdown of what happened and who else has paid the price for walking out. But first, a look at what happened in Paresh Rawal's case:

Iconic for his portrayal of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, Paresh is now in legal trouble after allegedly walking out mid-shoot from Hera Pheri 3, directed by Priyadarshan and produced by Akshay Kumar’s Cape of Good Films.

On May 20, reports surfaced that Akshay’s production team had slapped a Rs250 million legal notice on Rawal, accusing him of breaching the contract and causing financial and logistical damages.

Veteran actor Paresh Rawal has officially broken his silence on walking away from the much-anticipated film Hera Pheri 3. Speaking to Indian daily Mid-Day, Rawal explained that his exit was neither due to creative clashes nor financial reasons—but a personal decision rooted in instinct.

“We three make a great combination with Priyadarshanji directing us, but the fact is that I opted out because today I don’t feel like a part of it,” Rawal told Mid-Day. “It is final for the time being. I always say never say never for anything.”

He clarified there were no creative differences with director Priyadarshan or the team, adding:

“No amount of money compares to the love and respect of my audience. Right now, I just feel it is a role that I don’t want to do, that’s all.”

To dispel speculation, Rawal also posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

“I wish to put it on record that my decision to step away from Hera Pheri 3 was not due to creative differences… I hold immense love, respect, and faith in Priyadarshan, the film’s director.”

Akshay Kumar, who acquired the rights to the franchise, is said to be taking the alleged sabotage personally and legally.

1. Late actor Sushant Singh Rajput
Producer Viki Rajani sued him for allegedly breaching a contract with Innsaei Ventures Pvt. Ltd. and stalling Romeo Akbar Walter.

2. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Was threatened with legal action in 2003 when she walked out of Chalte Chalte, allegedly after Salman Khan caused disruptions on set. Shah Rukh Khan replaced her with Rani Mukerji.

3. Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Faced allegations of contract breach during Bole Chudiyan. The producers contemplated legal action after he walked away citing creative issues.

4. Kangana Ranaut
Was at the center of a storm during Simran and Manikarnika, where accusations flew both ways over unapproved script changes and directorial decisions.