O'Romeo: Has Avinash Tiwary replaced Randeep Hooda as antagonist in Shahid Kapoor's action thriller? Here's what we know

Vishal Bhardwaj's next action thriller, O'Romeo, features an A-list ensemble cast, and word has gotten out about it thanks to a new teaser. Although Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Tamannaah Bhatia, Avinash Tiwary, Disha Patani, and Nana Patekar are all prominently featured in the video, one person who was originally linked to the project—Randeep Hooda—is conspicuously missing.

Why did Randeep Hooda leave O'Romeo?

As per a report in Mid Day, according to investigations into the change in casting, Hooda, who had been cast as the film's main adversary, quit just before filming was supposed to start. According to people familiar with the production, the actor had to leave due to pressing family issues, not artistic disputes. His departure was timed to coincide with the April 2025 release of his film, Jaat.

A production team source informed the tabloid that Hooda had begun preliminary prep for the role. The unfortunate event occurred just before he was supposed to film his portions; a personal problem had arisen. During the period leading up to the April 2025 release of Jaat, he was dealing with major life events and his wife Lin Laishram's health. The source said that the actor had to prioritise his own duties, which is understandable.

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Who has been cast to replace Randeep Hooda in O'Romeo?

Despite the last-minute modification, it was handled professionally. It was stated that Hooda's desire to prioritise his family was backed by Bhardwaj and producer Sajid Nadiadwala, who made sure the parting was peaceful.

Quick action was taken to find a suitable replacement to keep the film's demanding production schedule and its scheduled release on February 13, 2026, intact. Laila Majnu and Bambai Meri Jaan actor Avinash Tiwary was cast in the part. The actor has never worked with Bhardwaj on a professional assignment before this one.

The source said in reference to the casting pivot that the production couldn't afford a major delay. They added, "Avinash fit the brief and was available to step into the role at short notice."

When will O'Romeo hit the big screen?

With its combination of Bhardwaj's distinctive cinematic style and a massive action plot, O'Romeo is still one of the most talked-about first-quarter movies. The film is scheduled to premiere next month thanks to the finalised cast and the now-circulating teaser.

O'Romeo FAQs:

Q: Why did Randeep Hooda leave the movie O’Romeo?

A: Randeep Hooda withdrew from the production shortly before filming due to urgent family matters and a personal crisis.

Q: Who replaced Randeep Hooda in Vishal Bhardwaj’s O’Romeo?

A: The role originally intended for Randeep Hooda was handed to Avinash Tiwary.

Q: What is the release date for the movie O’Romeo?

A: O’Romeo is scheduled to hit theaters during Valentine's Week on February 13, 2026.