The casting of ‘Race 2’, the sequel to the 2008 Abbas-Mustan thriller is fast turning out to be a game of musical chairs with actors walking out and others being signed in as replacement. The latest is that Deepika Padukone (who had been one of the first stars to be signed) has walked out after the film has already gone on floors. In fact, the movie had made news a few weeks ago because of its reported steamy scenes between Saif and Deepika.

The filmmakers are now in a quandary and producer Ramesh Taurani, we hear, has sent an SOS message to Priyanka Chopra requesting her to fill in for Deepika. Apparently, the actress has liked the script and is most likely to sign on the dotted line. Incidentally, Priyanka had been considered for the role earlier too. In October 2011, when Deepy was approached she had told the producers that the dates of ‘Race 2’ clashed with her dates for Ayaan Mukherjee’s film with Ranbir Kapoor. That’s when Priyanka was summoned. But by the time PC gave her approval, Deepika sorted out her dates and said ‘yes’ to ‘Race 2’.

But now it appears that Deepika would rather concentrate on Ayaan’s film than this thriller. Has it got to do something with a certain Mr Kapoor with whom she is reportedly getting pally with again? Meanwhile Priyanka, who has her plate full with ‘Krrish 3’ and ‘Barfee’ is seriously considering ‘Race 2.’ As they say, one actress’ loss is another’s gain in Bollywood. But with all the confusion, let’s hope the movie gets made!