Mumbai: Bollywood’s long-running comedy franchise Golmaal is set to return with its fifth instalment, and the latest casting development has created strong buzz across the film industry. According to an exclusive media report, actor Akshay Kumar has joined Golmaal 5 and is expected to play the main antagonist opposite Ajay Devgn, adding a fresh twist to the popular comic universe.

The Golmaal series, directed by Rohit Shetty, is one of Hindi cinema’s most successful comedy franchises, known for slapstick humour, ensemble chaos, and recurring characters. If confirmed, Akshay Kumar’s entry — especially in a negative role — would mark a major tonal expansion for the franchise while retaining its trademark entertainment style.

The makers, however, have not yet issued an official confirmation regarding the casting.

Franchise expands with a stronger antagonist arc

The Golmaal franchise began in 2006 with Golmaal: Fun Unlimited and went on to deliver multiple box office successes through sequels built around confusion-driven comedy, exaggerated characters and fast-paced storytelling. The films traditionally revolve around situational humour rather than a central villain.

Industry reports indicate that Golmaal 5 may introduce fantasy elements and a more defined antagonist-driven storyline, making the conflict structure more prominent than in earlier instalments. This shift is expected to give the narrative a broader canvas while preserving the light-hearted and family-friendly tone associated with the brand.

Akshay Kumar is reportedly being brought in to headline this antagonist track, which would represent a departure from the mostly comic or action-hero roles he has played in mainstream entertainers in recent years.

Akshay Kumar’s comedy legacy adds weight

Akshay Kumar is widely regarded as one of Hindi cinema’s most bankable comedy stars, with major franchise successes including Hera Pheri, Housefull, Welcome and Bhool Bhulaiyaa (original). His screen timing and physical comedy style have made him a natural fit for ensemble entertainers.

According to the report, his role in Golmaal 5 will be negative but designed within a comic-fantasy framework rather than a dark villain format. This would allow the character to remain consistent with Rohit Shetty’s exaggerated cinematic universe while still providing a strong counter-force to the lead group.

The film would also mark another collaboration between Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn, two senior stars who have previously shared screen space in multiple films across genres. Their past joint projects include Suhaag, Khakee, Insan, Sooryavanshi and Singham Again. Their on-screen rivalry dynamic in a full-fledged comedy setup is expected to be a key attraction if the casting is finalised.

Familiar Golmaal team likely to return

Ajay Devgn is expected to continue as the central anchor of the Golmaal universe, reprising his established character. Reports suggest that core ensemble members — Arshad Warsi, Tusshar Kapoor, Shreyas Talpade and Kunal Kemmu — are likely to return, maintaining continuity with earlier films.

Veteran comic performers Johnny Lever, Sanjay Mishra, Mukesh Tiwari and Ashwini Kalsekar are also expected to be part of the project, though final contracts are yet to be publicly detailed.

There is speculation that Sharman Joshi may return to the franchise after being absent from later sequels, which would add a nostalgic layer for long-time fans. However, there is no official clarity yet on the female lead casting. Kareena Kapoor Khan, who featured prominently in earlier entries, has not been confirmed for the new instalment.

Production timeline and release plans

Production for Golmaal 5 is reportedly scheduled to begin by the end of February 2026 at Film City in Mumbai. The film is being planned on a large scale, in line with Rohit Shetty’s recent high-budget entertainers that blend action, visual spectacle and comedy.

Trade sources indicate that the makers are targeting an early 2027 theatrical release window. The timing is significant, as it coincides with nearly two decades since the launch of the first Golmaal film, giving the new instalment anniversary value as well.

Rohit Shetty’s track record with franchise filmmaking — including Golmaal and his cop universe — has generally delivered strong box office openings, and expectations are high that the fifth part will follow suit.

Awaiting official confirmation

While the casting report has generated considerable excitement among fans and trade observers, the producers have not yet issued an official announcement confirming Akshay Kumar’s role. Until then, the development remains based on industry reporting.

If finalised, the move would represent one of the most interesting casting turns in the comedy franchise space — pairing two major stars on opposing sides within one of Bollywood’s most recognisable humour brands.