Casting News

Jude Anthany Joseph Says He Walked Out of Ayushmann Khurrana Film Over Mohanlal's 'Secondary' Billing

By MovieReleaseDate.in Editorial Team1 min read
Jude Anthany Joseph Says He Walked Out of Ayushmann Khurrana Film Over Mohanlal's 'Secondary' Billing

Malayalam director Jude Anthany Joseph said he returned his advance and left a Hindi project after its producers described Mohanlal's role as 'secondary casting'.

Malayalam filmmaker Jude Anthany Joseph has said he walked away from a proposed Hindi film with Ayushmann Khurrana after its producers called Mohanlal's part in it "secondary casting".

What happened

The Indian Express and Hindustan Times reported that Jude said he returned his advance and signed a non-disclosure agreement after leaving the project. He objected to the producers' description of Mohanlal, whom he had envisioned in an important role.

After the comments spread, Jude clarified that his criticism was aimed at the producer and not at Ayushmann, who he said had been enthusiastic about the script. Onmanorama reported that the two spoke and cleared the air. The Indian Express separately reported Ayushmann's response.

What is confirmed

  • Jude Anthany Joseph says he left the Hindi project and returned his advance.
  • He later said Ayushmann Khurrana was not responsible for the project falling through.

What is being reported

The producer and the project's title have not been publicly named in the coverage we reviewed.

Who has responded

Ayushmann Khurrana told The Indian Express that Mohanlal "is a legend" and said he was open to working with Jude in future.

Timeline

  1. Jude's comments reported by The Indian Express and Hindustan Times
  2. Jude and Ayushmann clear the air, Onmanorama reports

What happens next

Mohanlal and Jude Anthany Joseph later announced a separate new film together, planned for 2027.

Sources

Jude Anthany JosephAyushmann KhurranaMohanlalBollywoodCasting ControversyFilm IndustryDirector ExitIndian Cinema