Fifteen years after Don 2 expanded the franchise globally, Don 3 has found itself at the centre of a casting storm. As speculation mounted that Hrithik Roshan could replace Ranveer Singh following reports of a legal dispute, the War 2 star stepped in with a clear message. He was never approached for the film.
That single clarification has reset the conversation around one of Bollywood’s most valuable intellectual properties. Yet the larger uncertainty around Don 3 remains.
A Franchise Built on Legacy and Reinvention
The Don brand carries generational weight. It began with Amitabh Bachchan’s 1978 classic and was reinvented by Farhan Akhtar in 2006 with Shah Rukh Khan leading a slick reboot. The sequel in 2011 took the story international and reportedly earned over ₹300 crore worldwide.
The Ranveer Singh Announcement and Shift
Ranveer Singh’s casting was positioned as a generational transition. Known for high-energy performances and bold character choices, he was expected to bring a different rhythm to Don.
However, reports later suggested creative differences between Ranveer and Excel Entertainment, the production house founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani. Industry sources indicated dissatisfaction over the script and delays in locking a bound screenplay.
Subsequently, media reports claimed that Excel had initiated a breach claim estimated at ₹40 crore, citing pre-production losses. Neither side has publicly detailed the specifics of the dispute. The Producers Guild is believed to be involved in mediation, which is common practice in high-value film contracts.
Ranveer has since shifted focus to other projects, including Dhurandhar, which reportedly crossed ₹700 crore globally, and upcoming films such as Pralay and collaborations with Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Lokesh Kanagaraj.
Hrithik Roshan’s Name Enters the Frame
As news of the fallout spread, rumours quickly emerged suggesting Hrithik Roshan was being considered as a replacement. The speculation was amplified by nostalgia from his cameo appearance in Don 2 and his long-standing association with Farhan Akhtar, dating back to Lakshya.
Some industry reports even suggested Hrithik had once been an early choice for the 2006 reboot before Shah Rukh Khan came on board. That historical connection added fuel to the narrative.
But Hrithik has now firmly denied any involvement with Don 3 discussions. He reportedly requested media outlets to verify information before publishing speculative reports. This public clarification effectively closes the chapter on his association with the current installment.
Excel Entertainment at a Crossroads
With a reported budget speculation nearing ₹800 crore, Don 3 is not a routine production. Large-scale action franchises require locked scripts, international scheduling, and confirmed star commitments before financial closure.
Farhan Akhtar’s directorial gaps have historically reflected his insistence on strong screenplays. There was a five-year gap between Don and Don 2, during which he focused on refining the narrative scale.
If Don 3 undergoes further script revisions, it would not be unusual in today’s high-stakes production environment. However, prolonged uncertainty may push its timeline beyond 2027, especially with competition from action blockbusters such as Pathaan and Jawan reshaping the market.
The Financial Stakes Behind the Dispute
The reported ₹40 crore breach claim is believed to include pre-production expenses. These typically cover screenplay development, location scouts, crew retainers, and early design work.
Industry precedent shows that most star-producer disputes are settled confidentially. Guild mediation often helps avoid prolonged litigation. Public statements from all parties remain limited, suggesting that negotiations may still be underway.
For context, high-profile breach settlements are not new in Bollywood. Contractual disputes have historically been resolved privately to protect long-term professional relationships.
Divided Fan Reactions Continue
The fan divide reflects the emotional hold of the Don character.
Shah Rukh Khan loyalists remain attached to his suave portrayal. Ranveer supporters argue that reinvention keeps franchises alive. Hrithik’s fans briefly imagined a polished action-heavy version.
These debates underline the broader challenge of carrying forward a legacy associated with Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. The next Don must satisfy nostalgia while building new identity.
Media Rumour Cycle in Bollywood
Casting rumours often follow a predictable arc. Exit report. Replacement speculation within 48 to 72 hours. Clarification. Silence from production house.
This episode fits that pattern. Hrithik’s denial provides clarity on one front, but Excel Entertainment has yet to issue a detailed statement on Don 3’s current status.
The Franchise’s Long-Term Value
The Don IP is estimated by trade analysts to be worth over ₹1000 crore in brand equity, satellite rights, streaming potential, and international distribution. Any casting decision therefore carries significant commercial weight.
Studios today operate with higher financial scrutiny. Large budgets demand global viability, not just domestic star appeal.
Farhan Akhtar now faces the task of stabilising a project that was announced with confidence but has since encountered turbulence.
