Gullak shocker: Vaibhav Raj Gupta exits Season 5; makers eye new Annu Mishra

Vaibhav Raj Gupta (Annu Mishra) unexpectedly left the TVF series Gullak due to creative differences before Season 5 filming. Anant V Joshi is reportedly in talks to replace him.

Vaibhav Raj Gupta/Instagram

Unexpected news has rocked the slice-of-life series Gullak world: Vaibhav Raj Gupta, who played the beloved elder son Annu Mishra, allegedly left the Sony LIV (OTTplay Premium) series weeks before filming for the fifth season was about to begin.

Production scrambles to find Annu Mishra replacement

Jameel Khan, Geetanjali Kulkarni, and Harsh Mayar are among the cast members of the TVF series that revolves around the charming everyday lives and occasional misfortunes of the Mishra family. The makers are currently in a state of panic as they try to locate a suitable substitute for a major character.

Mid-Day has learnt from reliable sources that Gupta and the production team parted ways over creative disagreements about the future of his character in the upcoming season. The Viral Fever's team and the actor had a successful collaboration for four seasons, but they had creative differences regarding the fifth, according to an insider who remarked on the subject. Despite their eagerness to continue working together, they were unable to resolve their divergent views.

ALSO READ: Gullak season 5 release timeline, plot, cast, what to expect and other details about Jameel Khan’s family drama

Departure marks rare internal turbulence for acclaimed series

This separation is an unusual example of internal strife for the critically praised series, and it's the result of different creative views. Central to the show's plot has been Gupta's portrayal of the lovable and mature older son, Annu Mishra who shares in the family's triumphs and tragedies.

Reports indicate that the production crew is rushing to cast a new actor in the part in preparation for the upcoming filming schedule. Anant V Joshi is reportedly in talks to replace Anand Mishra as Annu Mishra, according to the tabloid. Ajey: The Untold Story of a Yogi was the most recent film in which Joshi played the titular role.

Anant V Joshi's prior dramedy experience makes him a 'good fit'

Because of his background in the genre, insiders say Joshi is a formidable contender. A source reveals, "Anant is familiar with dramedies like Gullak considering he has worked in Maamla Legal Hai [2024] and Kathal [2023], and can be a good fit."

While bringing a fresh face to a beloved character, the creators have the problem of keeping the series' continuity and emotional connection intact. Gullak fans are eagerly awaiting word on the new cast member who will be joining the Mishra family for the fifth season, which is still highly awaited. Reports indicate that the show will soon begin filming.

FAQs:

Why did Vaibhav Raj Gupta leave Gullak?

Vaibhav Raj Gupta reportedly left Gullak due to creative differences with The Viral Fever (TVF) team regarding the vision for his character, Annu Mishra, in the upcoming fifth season. Both parties were initially keen to continue, but the difference in opinion could not be resolved.

Who plays Annu Mishra in Gullak?

The character of Annu Mishra was played by actor Vaibhav Raj Gupta for the first four seasons of Gullak. Following his exit, the makers are currently in talks with actor Anant V Joshi to step into the role for Season 5.

Which other actors are in the main cast of Gullak?

The main cast of Gullak revolves around the Mishra family and also stars Jameel Khan, Geetanjali Kulkarni, and Harsh Mayar.

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