Unconfirmed industry reports suggest that social media star-turned-actor Joemon Jyothir has replaced Prithviraj Sukumaran as the lead of Santhosh Trophy, the upcoming film written and directed by Vipin Das. Neither the makers nor the actors have officially confirmed the development yet.

According to reports circulating in industry circles, Prithviraj is believed to have exited the project due to date clashes caused by the extended shoot schedule of Vysakh's Khalifa. It is also being reported that Prithviraj Productions is no longer backing Santhosh Trophy financially, with the project now expected to be jointly produced by Magic Frames and Vipin Das.

Joemon, who gained popularity through social media before transitioning to films, is best known for his appearances in Vaazha and Guruvayoorambala Nadayil. Interestingly, the latter was also directed by Vipin and starred Prithviraj in a lead role.

The makers had earlier unveiled Santhosh Trophy’s first-look poster in February, featuring Prithviraj in a striking masked avatar surrounded by folk-style ritual masks reminiscent of Theyyam traditions. At the time, the team had also announced that the cast would include around 60 newcomers.

Reports further suggest that the next shooting schedule will commence in June across Thiruvalla and Vaikom. Prithviraj was initially expected to join this leg of the shoot before the reported change in casting.

Meanwhile, Prithviraj is said to be moving on to Rahul Sadasivan’s next horror film, which also stars Manju Warrier in a lead role, after completing work on Khalifa.

Santhosh Trophy has cinematography by Aravind Puthussery, editing by Johnkutty and music composed by Ankit Menon.

Joemon was last seen playing a cameo in Vaazha 2: Biopic of a Billion Bros, reprising his role from the first instalment of the Vaazha franchise.