Akshay Kumar joins Rohit Shetty's Golmaal 5 as lead antagonist: Report
Akshay Kumar has been cast as the lead antagonist in Rohit Shetty's Golmaal 5. The film, led by Ajay Devgn, promises a fresh fantasy twist while retaining the franchise's iconic humour and ensemble cast.
Rohit Shetty’s blockbuster comedy franchise Golmaal is set to return with its fifth instalment, and the new film just got bigger with Akshay Kumar joining the cast.
According to a report in Variety India, Akshay has been roped in as the lead antagonist, pitted against Ajay Devgn and the franchise’s much-loved ensemble. The upcoming film is said to be bigger in scale and bolder in its comic madness, while staying true to the humour that has defined Golmaal since its debut in 2006.
This new chapter will reportedly explore fantasy elements, offering a fresh narrative shift from the franchise’s trademark prank-driven situational comedy. Regular cast members Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Kunal Kemmu and Shreyas Talpade are set to return. The film will also feature Johnny Lever, Sanjay Mishra, Mukesh Tiwari and Ashwini Kalsekar. Sharman Joshi is likely to make a comeback, while Kareena Kapoor Khan’s involvement is yet to be confirmed.
Akshay’s inclusion adds considerable weight to the project, given his long-standing association with successful comedy franchises such as Hera Pheri, Housefull and Welcome. Interestingly, the actor is exploring darker shades on screen once again, following his antagonist turn in Priyadarshan’s upcoming film Haiwaan. While both roles see him in negative space, they are said to be different in approach and temperament.
Production on Golmaal 5 is scheduled to begin by the end of February at Film City, Mumbai, with the makers eyeing a theatrical release in early 2027.
Golmaal 5 will also mark the sixth collaboration between Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn, following Suhaag (1994), Khakee (2004), Insan (2005), Sooryavanshi (2021) and Singham Again (2024).
Director Rohit Shetty is currently wrapping up his Rakesh Maria biopic with John Abraham before moving on to Golmaal 5. Ajay Devgn is busy shooting for Drishyam 3, while Akshay Kumar is expected to join the sets after completing Anees Bazmee’s comedy film with Vidya Balan. Akshay also has Bhaagam Bhaag 2, directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa, slated to go on floors later this year.