Veteran actor Mammootty will return to filming from October 1, joining the next schedule of Mahesh Narayanan’s tentatively titled multistarrer MMMN in Hyderabad. The announcement was made on Monday by the film's co-producer Anto Joseph, who confirmed the veteran actor’s comeback through a social media post.
“Beloved Mammookka is returning… From October 1st, he will resume acting in the film directed by Mahesh Narayanan. Mammookka will be joining the Hyderabad schedule,” Anto wrote. Reflecting on the months gone by, he added, “It feels as though it was only a brief pause all this time. That unexpected interval was endured with the strength of prayers and the support of well-wishers across the world.”
Closing on a deeply personal note, he said, “To all who remembered him in their prayers and stood by him through difficult moments, I offer my heartfelt thanks and endless love.” The update follows weeks of speculation over Mammootty’s health, which his team had dismissed earlier, clarifying that the break was temporary.
Though officially still referred to as MMMN, co-star Mohanlal revealed the upcoming film's actual title to be Patriot in June. The ensemble cast also includes Fahadh Faasil, Kunchacko Boban, Nayanthara, Revathi, Darshana Rajendran, Zarin Shihab and Grace Antony, among others. The film is shot by Manush Nandan, who previously worked on Bollywood biggies such as Dunki and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.
Reportedly a political espionage thriller, MMMN's production is led by Anto, with C R Salim and Subhash Manuel serving as co-producers. The film commenced shooting in Sri Lanka in November 2024.
On the big screen, Mammootty’s next release will be Kalamkaval, alongside Vinayakan, in which he reportedly plays a morally grey character. An official release date is awaited, though unconfirmed reports suggest it will hit theatres in November. The veteran actor was recently heard in a voice cameo as Moothon in Malayalam cinema’s recent sensation Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra. He is expected to reprise the part in the upcoming instalments of Arun Dominic's planned five-part franchise, backed by Dulquer Salmaan, drawn from Kerala’s folklore and mythology.