Akshaye Khanna Exits Ajay Devgn-fronted Drishyam 3; Reason Revealed

Mumbai, December 26 - One of the hugely-awaited films of 2026, Drishyam 3 faced a major setback after Akshaye Khanna, who has been basking in the back-to-back successes, reportedly exited from the film, leaving the makers in a major dilemma to fill one of the major characters of the franchise.

Earlier, it was reported that the creative differences between the actor and makers led the former to back out of the Ajay Devgn-led film. Now, according to the report by Bollywood Hungama, the big remuneration demand turned out to be the main reason behind the actor's exit.

There is no doubt that Akshaye is enjoying one of the best phases of his career after the big success of Chhaava and Dhurandhar, in which he received huge applause for playing the main antagonist roles. Because of the growing popularity, the actor reportedly demanded 21 crores in fees to feature in Drishyam 3, which took the makers aback.

"Akshaye was menacing as the villain in Chhaava, while he stole the show, and how, in Dhurandhar. He has become the next big thing. Realising the same, he decided to revise his fees. Accordingly, he asked for Rs. 21 crores from the makers of Drishyam 3", said the report.

The makers reportedly tried to reason with him that if he's paid a bomb, the film would go over-budget. However, the actor was adamant in his demand as he believes that his presence adds major value to any film. Apart from the remuneration, the report also stated that Akshaye demanded to wear a wig in the film, which the makers rejected as he wasn't without a wig in Drishyam 2.

Since the demands were made, Akshaye walked out of the suspense crime thriller film. The exit happened on a good note as the makers hope to collaborate with Akshaye in future when they'll be on the same page. Meanwhile, the shoot of Drishyam 3 has already commenced, and it will be hitting the big screens on October 2, 2026.

Stay tuned...