The "Thalaivar 173" Twist: Kamal Haasan Explains Sundar C's Exit

Fans were left reeling after director Sundar C unexpectedly exited Superstar Rajinikanth's "Thalaivar 173" project. Now, producer Kamal Haasan has stepped in to clarify the real reason behind the development and tease what's next for the highly anticipated film.

TL;DR: The Latest Scoop on "Thalaivar 173"

Director Sundar C stepped down from Rajinikanth's "Thalaivar 173" due to creative differences over the script.
Kamal Haasan, producing under Raaj Kamal Films International, confirmed they are actively searching for a story Rajinikanth genuinely loves and is satisfied with.
Beyond "Thalaivar 173," Kamal Haasan also hinted they are still looking for a suitable script for a separate, ambitious project where both he and Rajinikanth can act together.

The Sudden Shockwave: What Happened with "Thalaivar 173"?

Imagine the buzz when two titans of Tamil cinema, Superstar Rajinikanth and Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan, announced their collaboration for "Thalaivar 173." This wasn't just any film; it was a reunion of two legends after 46 years, with Kamal Haasan producing Rajini's 173rd venture under his Raaj Kamal Films International (RKFI) banner. The film, initially set to be directed by Sundar C, was even aiming for a grand Pongal 2027 release. Official photos and a video release had already sent fans into a frenzy, dreaming of the cinematic magic to come.

But then, a sudden shock. On November 13, director Sundar C issued a statement that hit social media like a bombshell: "Due to unexpected and unavoidable circumstances, I am stepping away with a heavy heart." He described the project as a "dream" and offered an apology to fans, leaving everyone confused. What could possibly lead to such an abrupt departure from a project of this magnitude?

Kamal Haasan Breaks His Silence and Reveals the Script Scrutiny

Just two days later, on November 15, Kamal Haasan met the press at Chennai airport. He finally shed light on Sundar C's exit, confirming what many had speculated: it all came down to the script. Haasan, speaking as the film's producer, emphasized his primary responsibility.

Kamal Haasan stated: "I am an investor. I need to choose a story that my star (Rajini) likes. Sundar C stepped away because a particular story didn't fit. He has explained the reason in his statement. We are letting go of that story and searching for one that Rajini truly loves. The search is ongoing. We will keep looking until we find it."

— Source: Natarajan Karuppiah, Thalaivar 173: The Real Reason Behind Sundar C’s Exit – Kamal Haasan’s Clarification, November 15, 2025

This clarification confirmed that while Rajinikanth might have liked the basic concept, he wasn't fully convinced by the complete script and reportedly requested significant changes. This situation, where a star's vision for the narrative differs from a director's, is a common creative challenge in filmmaking, especially when dealing with high-profile projects. The producer, in this case, Kamal Haasan, needs to ensure the lead actor, Rajinikanth, is completely satisfied with the story, as his star power drives the film's success.

The Tricky Balance: Announcing Big Projects Before Locking Down the Script

While Kamal Haasan's transparency has certainly eased concerns about the project's future, this incident also highlights a broader trend in the film industry: the premature announcement of major projects. It seems both "Thalaivar 173" and the even more ambitious "Rajini-Kamal acting together" film were announced before a finalized, approved script was in hand. This strategy, while generating immense initial buzz, carries significant risks.

One might argue that such early announcements are an unnecessary strategy, primarily aimed at garnering public attention without having a solid foundation. The tradeoff is clear: while it excites fans immediately, it can also lead to confusion and disappointment if plans change, as seen here. It puts immense pressure on all parties involved to deliver on an expectation that might not yet have a concrete blueprint.

Example: Imagine planning a huge road trip with your friends, setting a date, and telling everyone, "We're going to the Himalayas!" only to realize later that you haven't even decided on a route, what vehicle to take, or if everyone actually wants to trek. The initial excitement is great, but the planning snags can quickly turn that excitement into frustration for the whole group. That's a bit like announcing a "dream project" without a locked script.

The Hunt for the Next Visionary: Who Will Helm "Thalaivar 173"?

With Sundar C respectfully stepping aside, the search for a new director is officially on. While no names have been formally announced, industry whispers suggest a few contenders. Venkat Prabhu, known for his unique storytelling, is reportedly in talks. Interestingly, some reports even hint at a shift towards Telugu filmmakers like Vamsi Paidipally or Venky Atluri, given their prior experience with Tamil heroes, if Tamil directors continue to "back out." (Source: Tupaki Desk, Tamil Directors Moving Away, Will Telugu Directors Do It?, November 15, 2025).

This director search is crucial. The chosen filmmaker will need to craft a narrative that not only satisfies Rajinikanth's expectations but also lives up to the monumental hype surrounding a Kamal Haasan production starring the Superstar.

Another Dream Project: Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth on Screen Together?

Adding another layer of excitement, Kamal Haasan also cheerfully confirmed they are still looking for "another story where Rajini and I can act together." This is a completely separate ambition from "Thalaivar 173," where Kamal is solely producing. Both legends had hinted at this on-screen collaboration even before "Coolie's" release, further fueling fan dreams.

Just like "Thalaivar 173," this joint acting venture is also in the nascent stage of script finalization. Kamal Haasan's cryptic "Expect the unexpected" when asked about the kind of stories they're seeking for this project only amplifies the anticipation. It seems fans will have to wait a little longer, and with bated breath, for a concrete update on both these star-studded projects.

Khushbu Sundar Fights Back Against Online Trolls with Fierce Wit

The online world, unfortunately, rarely misses an opportunity to inject negativity into major news. Following Sundar C's exit, social media was flooded not just with questions, but with "nasty posts mocking Rajinikanth" and even actress Khushbu Sundar, Sundar C's wife. One particularly vulgar comment suggested Rajinikanth had asked Khushbu to dance for an item song, implying it was the reason for Sundar C's withdrawal. (Source: TOI Entertainment Desk, Khushbu hits back at a 'Thalaivar 173' troll; Destroys disrespectful comment, upholds Rajinikanth and Sundar C’s honour, November 14, 2025).

Khushbu, known for her outspoken nature, did not stand by. She responded with sharp, yet measured comebacks, directly challenging the misogynistic and disrespectful tone. Her most viral retort to the item song comment was, "No… we thought we could have someone from your house dance it." (Source: Mathrubhumi, Khushbu Sundar took a strong stand online as she shut down rumours and trolls targeting her husband Sundar C after his withdrawal from Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar 173, November 15, 2025). Her courage and wit in confronting online toxicity earned widespread praise from fans and industry colleagues, underscoring the need to stand firm against personal attacks and misinformation.

What's Next for Sundar C and the Superstar?

While "Thalaivar 173" seeks a new director and a fresh script, Sundar C has already moved on. He's currently directing 'Mookuthi Amman 2' starring Nayanthara and will also be seen acting in K Thirugnanam's thriller 'One 2 One' alongside Anurag Kashyap. Life in the film industry, even after a dream project doesn't materialize, continues at a brisk pace.

Meanwhile, Rajinikanth remains focused on his upcoming projects, including 'Jailer 2,' a sequel to his 2023 blockbuster, directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. He reportedly has a two-film contract with Kamal Haasan's production, covering "Thalaivar 173" and "Thalaivar 174," with his daughter potentially co-producing the latter. This multi-project deal hints at a long-term collaboration between the two superstars, even if the initial directorial choice for "Thalaivar 173" didn't work out as planned.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About "Thalaivar 173" Answered

What is the current status of "Thalaivar 173"? The film is currently in the script development phase. Sundar C has exited as director due to creative differences over the story, and the production team is actively scouting for a new director and a script that fully satisfies Rajinikanth. Will Kamal Haasan also act in "Thalaivar 173"? No, Kamal Haasan is currently attached to "Thalaivar 173" solely as a producer through his Raaj Kamal Films International banner. However, he confirmed they are also looking for a separate story where both he and Rajinikanth can act together in another film. Who might direct "Thalaivar 173" now? No new director has been officially announced. Names like Venkat Prabhu are reportedly in contention, and there's speculation about approaching Telugu filmmakers like Vamsi Paidipally or Venky Atluri.

Practical Takeaways for Fans and Filmmakers

Patience is a Virtue: Big collaborations, especially with legendary stars, often require extensive creative alignment. Scripts need to be perfect, not just announced.
Creative Control Matters: For a superstar like Rajinikanth, ensuring the story aligns with his vision is paramount, even if it means changing directors.
Don't Believe All the Hype (or Trolls): Early announcements can be exciting but are often subject to change. Always wait for official confirmations, and ignore online negativity.
Transparency Helps: Kamal Haasan's candid explanation clarified the situation, building trust with the audience despite the setback.

Sources

Natarajan Karuppiah, "Thalaivar 173: The Real Reason Behind Sundar C’s Exit – Kamal Haasan’s Clarification," November 15, 2025.
Santanu Das, "Kamal Haasan breaks silence on director Sundar C's exit from Rajinikanth film: ‘Searching for the right story’," Hindustan Times, November 15, 2025.
Kumar, "Why Two Legendary Actors Confusing The Audience ?," November 16, 2025.
TOI Entertainment Desk, "Khushbu hits back at a 'Thalaivar 173' troll; Destroys disrespectful comment, upholds Rajinikanth and Sundar C’s honour," Times of India, November 14, 2025.
Mathrubhumi, "Khushbu Sundar took a strong stand online as she shut down rumours and trolls targeting her husband Sundar C after his withdrawal from Rajinikanth’s Thalaivar 173," November 15, 2025.
BVS Prakash, "Kamal Haasan to Find Right Script for Rajinikanth," Deccan Chronicle, November 16, 2025.
Devasheesh Pandey, "Thalaivar 173: Sundar C's Wife Khushbu Sundar Reacts To Director's Abrupt Exit From Rajinikanth-Kamal Haasan's Movie," Republic World, November 15, 2025.
Tupaki Desk, "Tamil Directors Moving Away, Will Telugu Directors Do It?," Tupaki, November 15, 2025.
Zoom TV Digital, "Kamal Haasan Discusses Sundar C's Departure from Thalaivar 173: Committed to Selecting a Narrative That Appeals to Rajinikanth," Zoom TV, November 15, 2025.