Malayalam actor Mammootty's team has swiftly dispelled recent rumours suggesting the 73-year-old star is battling cancer and taking a hiatus from films. Addressing the speculation, his spokesperson has clarified that Mammootty is currently on vacation and observing fasting for Ramzan. The statement firmly labelled the cancer reports as false news, emphasizing Mammootty's upcoming return to work after his break.
Social media buzzed for hours with claims that 73-year-old Mammootty had cancer and halted filming for treatment, while some netizens dismissed the rumours but speculated about his hospitalisation; however, it has now been confirmed that he is in good health and merely took a break for Ramzan.
"It is fake news," read the statement from Mammootty's team. "He is on vacation because he is fasting for Ramzan. He is on a break from his shoot schedule as well because of that. In fact, after the break, he will go back to shooting for Mahesh Narayanan’s film with Mohanlal," the actor's PR told Mid-Day.
The highly anticipated project marks a significant reunion for Malayalam cinema, bringing Mammootty and Mohanlal together on-screen after over a decade. Directed by Mahesh Narayanan, the film's first schedule commenced in Sri Lanka and features a star-studded cast including Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara, and Darshana Rajendran.
In addition to his forthcoming film commitments, Mammootty recently unveiled a new poster for his upcoming action thriller, "Bazooka." Initially announced in 2023, the film is set to hit theatres on April 10, 2025, following production and post-production delays. Directed by debutant Deeno Dennis, "Bazooka" stars Mammootty alongside Gautham Vasudev Menon, Babu Antony, Iswarya Menon, Neeta Pillai, and Gayathri Iyer.
Mammootty was last seen in Gautham Vasudev Menon’s comedic investigative film, "Dominic and the Ladies’ Purse," which released on January 23. Despite receiving mixed reviews, Mammootty's portrayal of the titular character garnered praise, underscoring his enduring popularity in the industry.