John & Akshay: Bond still strong as ever

Actor John Abraham has  replaced Akshay Kumar in Welcome Back, the sequel to blockbuster Welcome, but says their bond is still strong as ever.

“When I signed Welcome Back, the first person I called was Akshay. I don’t know how relationships pan out in our industry, but I love him. Akshay is like my older brother. And he was so happy and told me, ‘you do the film’ and ‘Anees (Bazmee) bhai is a brilliant director’. He was very excited and encouraging,” John told the media at the shoot of a song with lead actor Shruti Haasan.John and Akshay have acted in Garam Masala, Housefull 2 and Desi Boyz.

“I have worked with him in several films and I’ve learned a lot from him. And if there is a first trial of the film, then perhaps we would call Akshay first because he’ll be very happy to come. I’m happy to have a good friend in Akshay and we have a beautiful relationship,” John said.