Akshaye Khanna’s decision to walk out of Drishyam 3 has left a question mark about what happens next in the popular franchise.

The Dhurandhar actor, currently basking in the success of the 2025 film, joined the franchise in 2022 as Tarun Ahlawat and hooked audiences with his phenomenal on-screen presence.

In an exclusive interview with The Times of Indiaproducer Kumar Mangat Pathak spoke at length about the actor’s sudden exit, admitting that he struggled to wrap his head around the latest development.

Expressing his honest thoughts on Akshaye’s decision, Pathak revealed that the actor was initially very hopeful about the film’s success and had made assumptions about its performance at the box office.

In addition, the producer confirmed that the actor had been paid in advance after multiple discussions.

It wasn’t until two weeks before the team was set to begin shooting that Akshaye backed out, and despite their efforts to get him back on the film, he remained adamant about his decision.

Pathak said, “At least walk out graciously. How can you not respond to calls and messages?”

This prompted Panorama Studios to consider sending him a legal notice.

For the unversed, Drishyam 3 also stars Ajay Devgn, Tabu, and Jaideep Ahlawat in key roles.