Akshay Kumar’s Hold on ‘Singh Is Kinng’ IP Rights Puts Sequel Plans in Limbo

The announcement of a sequel to the 2008 comedy hit Singh Is Kinng created a wave of excitement and curiosity, especially after producer Shailendra Singh revealed that the sequel would proceed without the original lead, Akshay Kumar.

He also mentioned that Ranveer Singh or Diljit Dosanjh would be cast in the iconic role, stirring discussions among fans who had hoped to see Akshay reprise his role in the beloved franchise.

Singh Is Kinng Sequel Faces Roadblock Over Akshay Kumar’s Involvement

While the news sparked some disappointment, particularly from fans of the first film, recent updates have clarified the situation, offering some hope for Akshay Kumar’s involvement.

According to a report from Pinkvilla, Akshay Kumar’s production company holds 50 percent of the intellectual property (IP) rights for Singh Is Kinng. This significant ownership means that a sequel to the film cannot be made without his consent.

“Akshay Kumar owns 50 percent of the IP for Singh Is Kinng. Anyone who wishes to make a part two has to make it with Akshay or needs a NOC from his end to roll without his involvement,” a source close to the development explained.

This essentially means that despite Shailendra Singh’s long-standing plans for a sequel, Akshay’s participation is crucial. The source also noted that Akshay Kumar and his team are not keen on relinquishing the rights to the franchise.

Instead, they are determined to produce the sequel only when they come across a strong script that aligns with their vision. “Akshay and his team are in no mood to part ways with the rights of Singh Is Kinng and will make a part two when they find a banging script for the same,” the source confirmed.

This means that Singh Is Kinng 2 cannot proceed without Akshay’s involvement in some capacity, whether in a starring role or as part of the production team.

Akshay Kumar Holds 50% of Singh Is Kinng IP, Sequel Cannot Proceed Without His Consent

An official statement from Akshay Kumar’s legal team further supported these claims, denying any assertions made by Shailendra Singh regarding the production of the sequel.

The statement made it clear that Akshay Kumar holds co-ownership of the film and any claims regarding the production of a sequel or franchise without his permission were “false and untrue.” The clarification emphasized that the franchise’s future hinges on Akshay’s approval.

Shailendra Singh, on the other hand, has been working on the sequel for over seven years. He regained the rights to the Singh Is Kinng title three years ago and now feels that the time is right to proceed.

He has set a tentative start for production in October 2025, with the aim of releasing the sequel in 2026. In an interview, Singh expressed his enthusiasm for bringing fresh energy to the project, stating, “Now the time is right for both Singhs, Ranveer and Shailendra, to create magic.” He strongly believes that Ranveer Singh’s vibrant energy and excellent comedic timing would make him the ideal choice for the lead role.

Ranveer was initially approached in 2017 when the sequel talks first emerged but the project did not materialize at that time.

New Lead, New Character, but the Same Humor and Energy

Singh has already made it clear, however, that the role of Happy Singh from the original film will not be reprised. Instead, a new character will be introduced in Singh Is Kinng 2, marking a departure from the previous narrative while still maintaining the humor and excitement that made the original such a hit.

While the producers remain hopeful, it seems that Akshay Kumar’s involvement remains the key to turning the sequel into a reality. With a new cast and character, Singh Is Kinng 2 promises to offer a fresh take on the franchise, but for now, the production’s timeline remains uncertain.