Jailer 2 Twist: Pawan Kalyan Likely To Replace Shah Rukh Khan In Rajinikanth Film? What Reports Suggest

Speculation around Rajinikanth’s Jailer 2 has intensified as reports claim Pawan Kalyan may step in for a special appearance first linked to Shah Rukh Khan. The sequel is said to be close to wrapping its shoot, yet the makers have not issued any official statement on the casting change.

Jailer 2, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar, is progressing steadily, with Rajinikanth returning as "Tiger" Muthuvel Pandian. The film is expected to follow the action-comedy style of the 2023 hit but on a larger canvas, backed by a star-heavy supporting cast and key characters from the earlier story.

Jailer 2 cameo twist: Pawan Kalyan, Shah Rukh Khan and changing plans

According to entertainment portal Valai Pechu, Pawan Kalyan has been approached to perform a cameo in Jailer 2. Earlier buzz claimed Shah Rukh Khan would appear as a police officer sharing screen space with Rajinikanth. Fresh reports now suggest Shah Rukh Khan is no longer attached, with Pawan Kalyan seen as the likely replacement.

Previous reports had suggested that Shah Rukh Khan was keen on joining Jailer 2 in a brief role. However, these updates also mentioned that Shah Rukh Khan eventually stepped away because of scheduling issues linked to the upcoming film King. No team member from Jailer 2 has confirmed any of these casting reports.

Jailer 2 cast, returning stars and Rajinikanth’s upcoming films

Jailer 2 is reported to feature Mithun Chakraborty, Vidya Balan, S. J. Suryah and Suraj Venjaramoodu in important supporting roles. Mohanlal and Shiva Rajkumar are expected to reprise their characters from the first film, extending the crossover appeal that helped the original attract audiences across different language markets.

Outside Jailer 2, Rajinikanth has lined up several projects. The next film, tentatively titled Thalaivar 173, will be directed by Cibi Chakravarthi and is described as an emotional action entertainer, with filming planned towards the end of April 2026. Reports also point to a KHxRK Reunion project, reuniting Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan on screen after more than forty years.