The Don 3 controversy refuses to die down. Fresh reports now reveal just how deep the project was in development with Ranveer Singh at the centre. According to industry sources, Excel Entertainment had been building the franchise around the actor for nearly 32 months before things reportedly fell apart in December 2025.
The project was built around Ranveer for over two years
Excel Entertainment allegedly began laying the groundwork for Ranveer’s introduction as the new face of the Don franchise in April 2023. The production house reportedly financed and shot an announcement teaser before unveiling it on August 9, 2023. Despite a mixed response from fans—some welcomed the change, others weren’t convinced—the makers stayed committed to their vision.
Industry sources say a term sheet outlining the principal terms of Ranveer’s association was signed in August 2024. The latest version of the script was shared with his team in March 2025, indicating that creative discussions were still moving forward. By then, the film was reportedly deep in pre-production rather than just development.
Extensive prep work underway before the exit
In August 2025, Excel shared a comprehensive schedule with Ranveer’s team that included action workshops, costume fittings, look tests, and principal photography plans. The production was reportedly scheduled to begin filming in January 2026 and continue through July. According to reports, Ranveer participated in action training sessions between November 3 and 12, 2025, with related expenses allegedly covered by the production house. Additional rehearsals, styling sessions, and look tests were also underway.
“By that stage, this was not a film waiting for approvals. This was a film preparing to go on floors. Multiple departments had been activated, schedules had been blocked, and substantial money had already been spent,” an industry source reportedly stated.
Industry questions the sudden departure
What has left many puzzled is the timeline. Reports suggest that Ranveer attended script-reading sessions alongside the director and other key cast members on December 15 and 16, 2025—mere days before the collaboration ended. A look test planned for December 17 was cancelled shortly before it was due. Three days later, on December 20, Ranveer allegedly informed the producers over a phone call that he would no longer be associated with the film.
“That is the question everyone is asking. If there were fundamental problems with the script, budget or the project itself, why continue with action training, costume trials, rehearsals and script readings?” a trade veteran reportedly remarked. While Ranveer’s camp has maintained there were concerns regarding the project, the actor has not publicly addressed the matter in detail. With significant investment already made and multiple departments activated, the industry continues to debate the circumstances of his exit. Don 3 remains one of the most anticipated projects, but now with a major casting question mark.