Randeep Hooda exits Shahid Kapoor’s o’romeo days before the shoot due to THIS reason

randeep hooda exit in o romeo

• Randeep Hooda exits O’Romeo due to personal crisis before filming his scenes
• Avinash Tiwary replaces Hooda as antagonist in Vishal Bhardwaj's action thriller
• O’Romeo set for February 13, 2026 release with teaser already generating buzz

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In a last-minute casting change for Vishal Bhardwaj’s upcoming action thriller O’Romeo, actor Randeep Hooda has reportedly withdrawn from the project just days before his portions were set to be shot. The film, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri and featuring an ensemble cast, is slated for a February 13, 202,6 release, and its teaser has already generated significant buzz online.

Hooda had been cast to play the antagonist in the film, and early reports suggested his role would be integral to the gritty narrative. However, sources close to the production say that a personal crisis emerged shortly before filming began, linked to developments in his personal life and family commitments.

A source from the production told mid-day, “Randeep had begun preliminary prep for the role. Unfortunately, a personal crisis emerged right before he was to shoot his portions. This was around the time of Jaat’s [2025] release last April; he was navigating important developments in his personal life and Lin’s [Laishram, his wife] health. Understandably, giving time to his personal commitments took precedence.”

Director Vishal Bhardwaj and producer Sajid Nadiadwala reportedly supported his decision, emphasising that they understood the importance of personal well-being and did not want to pressure him amidst challenging circumstances.

With O’Romeo operating on a tight production schedule to meet its early-year release, the filmmakers quickly moved to find a replacement. Avinash Tiwary was brought in to take on the antagonist’s role, marking his first collaboration with Bhardwaj. The team is said to be satisfied with the new casting, as the transition did not cause major delays.

Also read: Randeep Hooda pens heartfelt birthday note for pregnant wife Lin Laishram, celebrates new chapter of parenthood

The film itself, described as a turbulent narrative of love, passion and consequence set against a dark backdrop, also stars Tamannaah Bhatia, Nana Patekar, Disha Patani, Vikrant Massey and Farida Jalal among others. The teaser’s release heightened expectations for the project, and the change in casting has only added to fan discussions around the film.