Varun Dhawan To Lead YRF's First-Ever Horror Film, 2027 Release Planned: Report

Yash Raj Films (YRF) is preparing to enter the horror genre for the first time with an ambitious new feature film. Reportedly, the project will be directed by acclaimed filmmaker Abhay Pannu, best known for the critically acclaimed series Rocket Boys, and will feature Varun Dhawan in the lead role.

The film is expected to begin production later this year and is currently eyeing a theatrical release in 2027. Apart from directing the project, Abhay Pannu has also written its screenplay.

According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, Varun has been finalised as the lead actor, marking another collaboration between the actor and the production house.

Confirming the development, a source close to the project told the portal, “Varun has come on board as the lead for YRF’s first horror film. Yash Raj Films (YRF) is entering the horror genre for the first time with a feature film directed by Abhay Pannu, strategically championed by Akshaye Widhani, and now headlined by Varun Dhawan as the lead. YRF have made films across almost every genre except horror. Come 2027, and the banner will finally step into this genre.”

The upcoming film will also mark Abhay Pannu’s theatrical directorial debut. The filmmaker received appreciation for Rocket Boys, and his collaboration with YRF reflects the studio’s continued effort to back filmmakers with fresh storytelling styles.

For Varun Dhawan, the horror film will be his second project with Yash Raj Films after Sui Dhaaga.

The actor was last seen in Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, his father, veteran filmmaker David Dhawan's last directorial. He has not announced any of his upcoming projects yet.

However, there have been reports that he will star in Vivek Agnihotri's film based on Operation Sindoor.