Fans of the Malayalam blockbuster "Marco" are in for a major shock. While a highly anticipated sequel is officially in the works, it will not feature its lead star, Unni Mukundan. The unexpected casting twist has sent shockwaves through the industry, with social media now abuzz with speculation on who will take over the titular role in the newly registered film, "Lord Marco".
The Sequel is a Go, but with a New Face
The makers of the original film, director Haneef Adeni and producer Shareef Muhammed, have officially registered the title "Lord Marco" at the Malayalam Film Chamber, confirming that the gangster saga will continue. However, official paperwork for the project has revealed that Unni Mukundan will not be reprising his role as the apathetic gangster, a character he originally introduced in the 2019 film Mikhael.
This development comes as a surprise to many, especially after the original "Marco" was a massive box office hit, reportedly becoming the first A-rated Malayalam film to cross the ₹100 crore mark globally. The film’s gritty action and Unni Mukundan's intense performance were widely praised, setting the stage for a sequel that fans were eagerly waiting for.
Why Did Unni Mukundan Step Away?
Unni Mukundan’s exit is not entirely out of the blue. Earlier this year, the actor had hinted at his decision to step away from the franchise. In a response to a fan's question on social media, he candidly stated that he had "dropped plans to continue the Marco series" due to "too much negativity around the project."
His comments align with reports of controversy surrounding the original film, which was criticized by some for its extreme and graphic violence. Despite the film's financial success, the backlash appears to have influenced the actor's decision, paving the way for a new lead to take on the character of Marco.
Who Will Be the New "Lord Marco"?
With the door now open, speculation has gone into overdrive, with fans and trade analysts debating who could step into the shoes of the iconic anti-hero. Prominent names being floated online include Malayalam superstars like Mammootty and other major names like Yash, the star of the blockbuster K.G.F. franchise.
While no official casting announcement has been made, the prospect of a new superstar taking over the role promises to add a new dimension to the franchise. This unprecedented move ensures that "Lord Marco" will remain a hot topic of discussion as fans eagerly await an official announcement on who will carry forward the legacy of one of Malayalam cinema’s most talked-about characters.