The Backstory: Ranveer’s Exit After Dhurandhar’s Success
Ranveer Singh’s decision to walk away from Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3 has turned into a full-blown industry drama, with unions and guilds stepping in to mediate. The actor left the project nearly two years after its official announcement, which had positioned him as the new face of the iconic franchise previously headlined by Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.
The timing of his exit has raised eyebrows—it coincided with the massive box-office success of his film Dhurandhar. Industry insiders suggest that Ranveer’s departure might have been influenced by the film’s triumph, though the actor has not publicly confirmed this. Sources close to the production reveal that mediation sessions have exposed conflicting accounts between Singh and Excel Entertainment.
Producers Claim Rs 45 Crore Loss
Excel Entertainment, the production house behind Don 3, has filed a formal complaint with the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). In the complaint, producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani allege that the company had already spent Rs 45 crore on preparations for the film, including training sessions and other pre-production costs that Singh had reportedly participated in.
According to industry sources, Singh had begun training and attended several preparation sessions before suddenly cancelling his commitments in December 2025, around the release of Dhurandhar. The producers reportedly questioned whether he would have left the project if Dhurandhar had not become a hit. The dispute has now escalated to mediation, with both sides presenting their versions of events.
What’s Next for Don 3 and Ranveer?
With the mediation process underway, the future of Don 3 remains uncertain. The franchise, which began with Amitabh Bachchan and later starred Shah Rukh Khan, has a massive fan following. Ranveer’s casting was initially met with excitement, but his sudden exit has left the production in limbo.
As for Ranveer, his career is on a high after Dhurandhar’s success, but this controversy could cast a shadow. Neither the actor nor Excel Entertainment has issued a public statement beyond the legal proceedings. Fans are left wondering if the dispute will be resolved amicably or if it will lead to a prolonged legal battle.