Akshay Kumar says 'will not work with proven offenders', Sajid Khan steps down as 'Housefull 4' director

Upcoming Bollywood film ‘Housefull 4’ finds itself in the middle of #MeToo controversy as director Sajid Khan steps down from his post in the wake of several sexual assault allegations levied against him. In a statement today, Sajid said, "In the wake of the allegations against me and the pressure being put on my family, my producers and the stars of my film ‘Houseful 4’, I must take the moral responsibility of stepping down from my directorial post, till the time I can allay the allegations and prove the truth.” 
 
He added, “I request my friends in media to not pass out judgement till the truth is out. "

 
After news of sexual assault allegations came out, Akshay Kumar who also stars in the film opened up on the same and said, “I will not work with any proven offenders and all those who have been subjugated to harassment should be heard and given the justice they deserve.”

Also read: Farah Khan responds to charges of sexual harassment against brother Sajid Khan
 
He added, “I have just landed in the country last night and reading all the news has been really very disturbing. I've requested the producers of Housefull 4 to cancel the shoot until further investigation. This is something that requires stringent action.”
 
‘Housefull’ series director has been accused by multiple women of sexual misconduct and harassment including a model, an actress, and a journalist. 
 
Apart from Akshay Kumar, ‘Housefull 4’ also stars Riteish Deshmukh, Kriti Sanon, Pooja Hegde, Nana Patekar among others. Also read: Tanushree Dutta records statement with police after filing FIR against Nana Patekar
 
The film is bankrolled by Sajid Nadiadwala under the banner of Nadiadwala and Grandson. It is scheduled to release in Diwali next year.