Mumbai, India – June 10, 2024: Actor Akshaye Khanna has reportedly exited the upcoming film Drishyam 3 due to a significant increase in his fee demands following the success of his recent film, Dhurandhar. The development comes as a setback for the producers of the popular franchise, who had already finalized the actor for the role.
Background
Drishyam, directed by Abhinav Kashyap, is a popular Hindi crime thriller franchise that began with its first installment in 2015. The film was a massive success, leading to a sequel, Drishyam 2, released in 2021. Both films were praised for their gripping storytelling and performances, particularly by Ajay Devgn and Tabu.
Akshaye Khanna, known for his versatile roles in films like Border and Aitraaz, was initially approached for a pivotal role in Drishyam 3, which was set to release in 2025. The actor had reportedly agreed to the project, but the recent success of Dhurandhar has led to a change in his financial demands.
Key Developments
Sources close to the production reveal that Khanna’s performance in Dhurandhar was well-received by critics and audiences, leading to a surge in his market value. As a result, the actor’s team reportedly revised his fee demands, which the producers found unsustainable for the project’s budget.
Despite negotiations, the two parties were unable to reach a mutual agreement, leading to Khanna’s exit from the project. The producers are now reportedly exploring alternatives, including recasting the role or adjusting the script to accommodate a new actor.
Impact
The film’s production has been delayed, and the original release date of 2025 is now uncertain. Fans of the franchise are concerned about the change in the cast, as Khanna was expected to play a significant role. The delay may also affect the overall marketing and promotional strategies for the film.
For Akshaye Khanna, the decision to exit Drishyam 3 could have both positive and negative repercussions. While it may allow him to pursue other high-profile projects, it could also lead to criticism from fans and industry experts who value his commitment to the franchise.
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What Next
The producers of Drishyam 3 are expected to finalize a new cast member soon. Meanwhile, Akshaye Khanna is likely to focus on his upcoming projects, including a biographical drama and a sequel to one of his previous hits. The industry is watching closely to see how this development will impact both the actor and the film.
