Comedy has always been the biggest strength of the Golmaal franchise, but the upcoming fifth installment looks ready to shake things up with an unexpected twist. While fans were already excited after the makers confirmed filming had begun earlier this year, a fresh update suggests the movie will feature Priyamani in a role unlike anything audiences have seen from her in the series. The actress, who has earned praise for her performances across films and streaming shows, is reportedly stepping into the shoes of the film’s antagonist. If the reports turn out to be true, Golmaal 5 could bring a different flavour to Rohit Shetty’s much-loved comedy universe.
The film went on floors in February 2026, with the makers announcing the start of production through a fun promotional video featuring the franchise’s familiar faces. Ajay Devgn returned alongside Arshad Warsi, Shreyas Talpade, Tusshar Kapoor, Kunal Kemmu and Sharman Joshi, whose comeback marked his first appearance in the series since Golmaal: Fun Unlimited. The biggest surprise from the announcement, however, was the addition of Akshay Kumar, whose entry immediately became one of the most talked-about highlights among fans. His casting has only increased curiosity about how Rohit Shetty plans to expand the comedy entertainer.
Priyamani Set To Play The Film’s Main Antagonist
According to an exclusive report by Variety India, Priyamani will be seen playing a negative role in Golmaal 5. The actress has previously impressed audiences with projects such as The Family Man, Article 370 and Yamadonga, but portraying a villain in the Golmaal universe would be a fresh challenge in her career. Her reported casting hints that the story may lean more heavily into conflict while still retaining the franchise’s trademark humour. It also raises curiosity about how Rohit Shetty balances comedy with a stronger central antagonist this time around.
The filmmaker has often introduced memorable characters in his entertainers, and Priyamani’s reported role could become another standout addition if executed well. While the makers are yet to officially reveal details about her character, the idea of seeing the National Award-winning actress opposite the franchise’s comic gang has already generated excitement. Fans are eager to find out whether she will play a stylish mastermind, a powerful rival or a completely unexpected villain. Much of that mystery is likely to remain under wraps until the promotional campaign begins.
Familiar Faces Return As Franchise Marks 20 Years
Priyamani is no stranger to Rohit Shetty’s filmmaking style. She earlier appeared in the energetic dance number “1 2 3 4 Get on the Dance Floor” from Chennai Express, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone. She has also worked with Ajay Devgn in the sports drama Maidaan, making Golmaal 5 another reunion with both the actor and the filmmaker. Those earlier collaborations could help bring natural chemistry to the new project despite the reported shift in her on-screen image.
The fifth film is also bringing back several familiar names who have contributed to the franchise’s popularity over the years. Johny Lever, Sanjay Mishra, Mukesh Tiwari and Ashwini Kalsekar are all returning, ensuring that the signature chaos and comic confusion remain intact. Their presence, combined with the expanded lead cast, suggests that Golmaal 5 is aiming to deliver one of the biggest ensemble comedies in the franchise’s history. Rohit Shetty has consistently relied on recurring characters to build the series’ identity, and this installment appears to continue that tradition.
The Golmaal journey began with Golmaal: Fun Unlimited in 2006 and has grown into one of Bollywood’s most successful comedy franchises over the past two decades. Across its four released films, the series has reportedly collected more than ₹600 crore worldwide while developing a loyal fan following. With the franchise celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, expectations are naturally much higher for the next chapter. The makers are currently targeting an early 2027 theatrical release, giving audiences another big-screen comedy event to look forward to.
