Arshad Warsi is reportedly returning as the sole lead of Jolly LLB 4, but the upcoming installment will take the popular courtroom comedy franchise in an unexpected direction. Instead of continuing the events of Jolly LLB 3, the makers are developing a prequel directed by Umesh Shukla, marking the first change of director in the series.
According to an October 20 exclusive report by Variety India, the project is in its final stages of pre-production, with filming expected to conclude by January 2027.
Jolly LLB 4 Will Explore an Earlier Chapter
A source familiar with the production confirmed that the fourth installment would move backward in the franchise’s timeline.
“It’s a prequel,” the source told Variety India.
Warsi is expected to reprise his role as Jagdish Tyagi, the ambitious lawyer audiences first encountered in the 2013 original.
The prequel format creates an opportunity to explore the character’s earlier experiences, potentially offering additional context about his legal career and personal struggles. However, the actual storyline has not been disclosed.
The makers have also yet to finalize the film’s official title.
Umesh Shukla Replaces Subhash Kapoor as Director
One of the biggest changes involves the director’s chair.
Subhash Kapoor wrote and directed all three previous Jolly LLB films, establishing the franchise’s combination of courtroom humor and social commentary.
Umesh Shukla, known for OMG: Oh My God! and 102 Not Out, will reportedly direct the upcoming prequel.
His experience with socially relevant comedy makes him an interesting choice, although the film’s precise tone remains unconfirmed.
Will Akshay Kumar Return in Jolly LLB 4?
Warsi originated the Jolly character in 2013, while Akshay Kumar introduced a different lawyer, Jagdishwar Mishra, in Jolly LLB 2 (2017).
The two characters eventually appeared together in Jolly LLB 3, released in September 2025.
With the next film reportedly focusing on Warsi’s character, Akshay Kumar’s involvement has not been confirmed.
It is also unclear whether familiar cast members, including Amrita Rao, Boman Irani and Saurabh Shukla, will return.
The film is reportedly being planned for a 2027 theatrical release, although an exact date has not been announced.
If the prequel moves forward as reported, it will give the franchise an opportunity to revisit the character who started it all while introducing a new creative direction.
