MUMBAI — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Indian film industry, superstar Ranveer Singh has reportedly walked out of Farhan Akhtar’s highly anticipated action-thriller Don 3. The decision comes at a time when the actor is basking in the historic success of his latest blockbuster, Dhurandhar.
Industry insiders suggest that the massive box-office momentum of Dhurandhar—which trade experts predict will cross ₹700 crore nett by the end of its fourth week—has prompted the actor to rethink his upcoming lineup. Ranveer is reportedly moving away from back-to-back gangster roles to focus on more experimental “high-concept” cinema.
Why the Exit?
According to reports from the Times of India and trade sources, the decision was mutual but sudden. While the prep for Don 3 was in full swing, with Kriti Sanon already confirmed as the female lead, Ranveer has decided to fast-track his upcoming zombie thriller titled ‘Pralay’, directed by Jai Mehta.
“Ranveer wants to avoid the ‘Don’ shadow for now,” says a source close to the production. “After the grit and intensity of Dhurandhar, he is looking for something that breaks the mold. Don 3 is a massive responsibility, and he feels the timing isn’t right for him to step into those shoes just yet.”
The Search for a New Don Begins
This leaves Farhan Akhtar and Excel Entertainment in a tight spot. The film was scheduled to go on floors in Europe by January 2026. With Ranveer out, the search for a new lead has officially reopened.
Speculation is already rife on social media, with fans suggesting names like Ranbir Kapoor and Hrithik Roshan. However, the makers have maintained a strict silence as they evaluate their next move.
The ‘Dhurandhar’ Effect
Ranveer’s current run is being compared to the legendary peaks of Bollywood’s biggest icons. Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar, has not only dominated the Indian markets but has become a global phenomenon.
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Current Collection: ₹600 crore nett (approx.)
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Projected Lifetime: ₹750–800 crore global.
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Critical Acclaim: Praised for its “bone-chilling” action sequences and Ranveer’s career-best performance.
Quick Summary: Don 3 vs Pralay
| Feature | Don 3 | Pralay (New Project) |
| Director | Farhan Akhtar | Jai Mehta |
| Status | Lead search back on | Fast-tracked for 2026 |
| Genre | Spy/Gangster Thriller | Zombie/Survival Horror |
| Confirmed Cast | Kriti Sanon | Ranveer Singh |
Expert Analysis: A Risky Move or a Masterstroke?
By the Breaking News Today Entertainment Desk
Exiting a franchise as iconic as Don is a massive gamble. However, Ranveer Singh has built his career on taking risks. By choosing Pralay over Don 3, he is betting on the “New Age” audience that favors unique genres like zombie horror over traditional formulaic sequels. With ₹700 crore in the bag from Dhurandhar, Ranveer currently has the “box-office immunity” to make such a bold call.
