Do movie franchises stay with the same actors? Bollywood is for sure obsessed with remakes and sequels and we have seen many new creations that have clicked at the BO.

Now, B-town is abuzz with new jodis being struck, even after the initial jodis clicked sequel after sequel. And, the question is — how much is it anticipated by fans?

Reports had it that Aamir Khan ‘snatched’ “PK” from Ranbir Kapoor. Now, it appears that John Abraham grabbed Akshay Kumar’s role for “Hera Pheri 3”. Akshay has been part of “Hera Pheri “franchise, which took off from the first movie in 2000. The third part of the franchise will soon go on the floors now, but Khiladi Kumar won’t be a part of it. Buzz is that the actor had a fall out with the makers over remuneration issues. A case of becoming too pricey?

Mixed reports were seen in media. It was previously reported that Akshay was not approached for the movie. Later it was said that the actor did not like the script. However, according to a report by a tabloid, it was revealed that the actor had demanded Rs 50 crores as his fee, which was exorbitant and not acceptable to the producers.

Akshay may have given a thumbs down to “Hera Pheri 3”, but on the other hand, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal agreed. The producers had no option but to find a replacement for Akshay. Incidentally, the film was delayed due to several rounds of conversation, which did not lead to any results!

If the latest buzz is to be believed, actor Abhishek Bachchan has also been roped in for the third installment of “Hera Pheri”. It is said that Junior Bachchan replaced Irrfan Khan in the movie, at the last minute. Apparently, Irrfan, in spite of being unwell, shot for an audio visual that was to be shown at the film’s mahurat. However, a source reveals that the makers felt that Abhishek would be better suited for the role considering his pairing with Abraham clicked in Dostana.

The film’s spokesperson confirms to a daily that Irrfan has been approached to play a “lovable don” in “Hera Pheri 3”, adding: “The writers are now developing his role and once that is done, the producers will approach him. There is no question of any replacement as it’s a completely new story, with new characters.”

But, an insider close to Irrfan, however clarified, “He didn’t go to shoot the video, but to discuss the role. Finally, it didn’t work out. He was not approached for Abhishek’s role”.

It was rumored that Junior B was initially hesitant about taking up the project but agreed after Abraham convinced him during a meeting with director Neeraj Vora. Sure, the bond carries enough weight!

“I am feeling excited about starting the film as it has always been hatke. It is about very innocent criminals. The film has a childlike quality in it. You can watch it with your family and we are extremely happy that Abhishek and John are part of the project, their chemistry is commendable and tested,” confirms Neeraj.