Jitendra Kumar replaces Vikrant in 'Mirzapur' film: Everything to know
What's the story
Actor Jitendra Kumar has replaced Vikrant Massey as Bablu Pandit in the upcoming Mirzapur film adaptation, reported PeepingMoon. The decision comes after Massey and the makers parted ways amicably. Sources told the portal that Massey was approached for the role but refused to reprise it due to his dissatisfaction with how Bablu's character was treated in the first season. Here's everything to know.
Role change
Why did Massey refuse to reprise his role
Massey was reportedly unhappy with how Bablu's character was killed off in the first season, as he had hoped for a longer arc. He didn't want to see his character meet the same fate again in the film adaptation and hence decided not to be a part of it. The producers, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, respected Massey's decision and began searching for a new actor to play Bablu. Notably, the makers haven't confirmed Kumar's casting yet.
New face
Meet the show's ensemble cast
Kumar, who is known for his roles in TVF's Kota Factory and Amazon Prime Video's Panchayat, was chosen to play Bablu. He has reportedly charged a hefty fee for the film. The film will also see the return of the main cast from the show, including Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Divyenndu, Abhishek Banerjee, and Shweta Tripathi.
Production update
Everything else to know about 'Mirzapur' film
Mirzapur: The Film is one of the first instances of a successful web series being adapted into a feature film in India. Directed by Gurmmeet Singh, who has directed 17 episodes of the series, and created by Puneet Krishna, the film is expected to be completed by December-end. It aims for a theatrical release in 2026.