Good days have truly returned for Ranbir Kapoor. After a hiatus from 2018 to 2021, few could have anticipated the grand comeback of Bollywood’s ‘Saawariya.’ Following his four-year break, Ranbir made a powerful return with the 2022 blockbuster Brahmastra, his first pan-India release, where he played the role of Shiva. The film was a massive success and marked a turning point in his career.

Building on this momentum, in 2023, he wowed audiences with his intense performance in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal. Ranbir’s alpha-man avatar in the movie sparked debates on social media, but the film’s box office success spoke louder than the criticism.

Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga not only gave fans an unforgettable cinematic experience with Animal but also announced its much-awaited sequel, Animal Park. Now, recent reports suggest a major casting shake-up, with Bobby Deol’s character being replaced by a new villain—one of Ranbir Kapoor’s closest friends.

Vicky Kaushal Set to Take Over as the Villain?

In Animal, Bobby Deol portrayed Abrar Haq, a menacing character who left an unforgettable impression despite having just 15-20 minutes of screen time. However, Abrar’s story concluded in the first film, ruling out Bobby Deol’s return in Animal Park.

According to recent rumors, Animal Park will feature not one but two villains. The first is Aziz, Abrar Haq’s younger brother, who undergoes plastic surgery to resemble Ranbir Kapoor’s character, Ranvijay. As for the second antagonist, reports suggest none other than Vicky Kaushal, Ranbir’s close friend, may step into this pivotal role.

Although the makers have yet to confirm this casting news officially, fans are already buzzing with excitement. Ranbir and Vicky last shared the screen in the 2018 blockbuster Sanju, where Vicky played Kamli, the loyal friend of Ranbir’s titular character. Their electrifying chemistry could be a massive treat for fans if they reunite in Animal Park.

Apart from Animal Park, the two actors are also slated to co-star in the upcoming film Love and War, alongside Alia Bhatt.

Ranbir Kapoor Shares Updates on ‘Animal Park’

In an exclusive interview with Deadline, Ranbir Kapoor revealed exciting news about the sequel. He confirmed that Animal Park will begin shooting in 2027, as director Sandeep Reddy Vanga is currently wrapping up another project. He also hinted that the franchise is envisioned as a trilogy, with Animal Park being the second installment.

Ranbir’s Upcoming Projects

Besides Animal Park, Ranbir Kapoor has a packed schedule with several high-profile projects. He is set to play the role of Lord Shriram in Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious mythological epic Ramayana, which will feature Sai Pallavi as Sita. The film is expected to release during Diwali 2026.

Fans have a lot to look forward to, from his mythological avatar to his action-packed role in Animal Park. With Vicky Kaushal potentially joining the Animal universe, the excitement around the sequel is only intensifying.