The “Cop Universe” and the “Comedy Universe” of Rohit Shetty are about to collide in the most unexpected way. According to an exclusive report by Variety India, Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar has officially joined the ensemble of Golmaal 5. In a shocking twist for the franchise, the “Khiladi” of Bollywood will not be joining the prankster gang but will instead portray the main antagonist opposite Ajay Devgn’s iconic character, Gopal.
While Rohit Shetty’s films often feature high-octane action and larger-than-life heroes, the Golmaal series has traditionally focused on slapstick rivalry. By casting Akshay Kumar as a formidable villain, Shetty appears to be raising the stakes, blending his signature action-thriller intensity with the franchise’s legendary comedic roots.
The news of Akshay Kumar playing a villain has sent shockwaves through the trade circuit. While the two superstars have shared the screen in films like Suhaag, Insan, and more recently in the “Cop Universe” (Sooryavanshi), they have rarely stood on opposite sides of the law.
In Golmaal 5, Akshay Kumar’s character reportedly serves as a sophisticated yet hilarious foil to Gopal’s short-tempered bravery. While the makers are keeping specific plot details under wraps, the “Variety India” report suggests that Akshay’s role will require a balance of menacing presence and the sharp comic timing he is famous for. This casting choice signifies a bold move to modernize the franchise, ensuring it appeals to a global audience that craves high-stakes conflict even in comedies.
A Golmaal film is nothing without its core ensemble, and the fifth installment promises a grand homecoming. The “Original Gang”—Arshad Warsi (Madhav), Tusshar Kapoor (Lucky), Shreyas Talpade (Laxman), and Kunal Kemmu (Laxman)—are all expected to return to their respective roles.
The film also reinforces its comedic foundation by bringing back the veteran actors who have become synonymous with the series:
- Johnny Lever
- Sanjay Mishra
- Mukesh Tiwari (Vasooli Bhai)
- Ashwini Kalsekar
The chemistry between these veterans and the new “villainous” addition of Akshay Kumar is expected to provide the film’s funniest moments, especially given Akshay’s history of impeccable improvisation.
While the core gang is locked, the air is thick with speculation regarding two former franchise favourites. Rumours suggest that Kareena Kapoor Khan, who starred in the second and third installments, may reprise her role as the female lead.
Additionally, fans have long campaigned for the return of Sharman Joshi, who played the original Laxman in the first film. If these speculations hold true, Golmaal 5 would essentially serve as a “Greatest Hits” reunion for the entire franchise, making it the biggest comedy event in Indian cinematic history.
The wait for the “New Year, New Golmaal” is almost over. Production for Golmaal 5 is officially scheduled to begin by the end of February 2026. The first leg of the shoot will take place at the iconic Film City in Mumbai, where massive sets are currently being constructed to reflect the film’s “expansive and colourful” aesthetic.
Despite the detailed report by Variety India, the makers—Rohit Shetty Picturez and Reliance Entertainment—have not yet officially confirmed Akshay Kumar’s casting. This “strategic silence” is a common tactic used by the director to build maximum anticipation before a grand title reveal or a first-look poster.
However, trade insiders suggest that the deal is finalized, and the official announcement will likely coincide with the start of the February shoot. For Rohit Shetty, this film is a crucial milestone, as it aims to break the box office records set by Golmaal Again (2017).
The inclusion of a superstar like Akshay Kumar in a villainous role transforms Golmaal 5 from a standard sequel into a massive cinematic event. It challenges the traditional “hero-hero” dynamic and promises a clash that is both thrilling and riotous. As the cameras start rolling at Film City this month, the journey toward the Early 2027 release has officially begun.
One thing is certain: when Gopal meets his match in a villain played by the “Khiladi,” the result will be nothing short of dhamaal.
