Producer Reacts To Akshaye Khanna's Exit From Drishyam 3 and Confirms His Replacement

Mumbai, December 27 - Akshaye Khanna, who has been riding on the success of Dhurandhar, gave a major shock to the makers of the upcoming suspense thriller Drishyam 3 by exiting the film at the last moment. It was reported that the actor demanded high remuneration, among others, which wasn't met and eventually led the actor to exit the film.

Now, Drishyam 3's producer Kumar Mangat Pathak has reacted to the news, and he has blasted Akshaye Khanna for his unprofessional behaviour. Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, the producer revealed what went on behind the scenes, accusing the actor of making unreasonable demands and stating that he plans to sue him.

"We had signed an agreement with Akshaye Khanna. His fees also got locked after a lot of renegotiations from his side. He insisted that he would like to wear a wig. But (director) Abhishek Pathak convinced him that it wouldn't be practical, as it would result in continuity issues since Drishyam 3 is a sequel.

He understood his point and agreed to let go of that demand. However, the chamchas around him advised him that he would look smarter if he donned a wig. So, he again requested the same. Abhishek relented and was even ready to discuss this point with him. But then, he informed us that he doesn't want to be a part of the film at all", the producer told the portal.

Kumar Mangat Pathak further said that he gave Akshaye a chance in Article 375 (2019) and then Drishyam 2 (2022). He said that the actor was nothing before those films, but started getting big projects after the second instalment of the Ajay Devgn-led franchise. He even said that Akshaye liked the script of Drishyam 3 and confidently said that it is a 500 crore film, and signed the film and took the advances, but 10 days before the shoot commenced, he left the movie.

The filmmaker also confirmed the casting of Jaideep Ahlawat, who has replaced Akshaye Khanna. Directed by Abhishek Pathak, the movie also stars Tabu, Shriya Saran, Ishita Dutta, Mrunal Jadhav, and Rajat Kapoor in key roles. It is scheduled to release on October 2, 2026.

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