Hrithik Roshan has officially shut down speculation linking him to Don 3, categorically denying he was ever considered to replace Ranveer Singh in Farhan Akhtar’s troubled franchise. The clarification comes amid escalating tensions between Singh and Excel Entertainment over the actor’s December 2025 exit.
Don 3 Controversy Timeline
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| August 2023 | Ranveer Singh announced as new Don with teaser |
| December 2025 | Ranveer exits citing creative differences |
| Allegations | Excel considered Hrithik replacement, ₹40 cr damages |
| February 13, 2026 | Hrithik denies involvement completely |
| Current Status | Production indefinitely halted |
Hrithik’s Crystal-Clear Statement
Speaking to Variety India on February 13, the Fighter star addressed the swirling Bollywood casting controversy: “What started off as just a rumour has now taken a life of its own, and it’s important to set the record straight. I would like to categorically clarify that I was never approached for Don 3 at any given time. I request the media to steer clear of any such unverified reports.”
This unequivocal denial comes after Ranveer reportedly alleged during a Producers Guild meeting that Excel Entertainment explored casting Hrithik while he was still attached.
The Ranveer Singh-Excel Feud Explained
The Dhurandhar star’s departure triggered a bitter ₹40 crore compensation dispute. Ranveer accused Excel of unprofessionalism (no bound script), allegedly exploring Hrithik’s availability, then re-approaching Ranveer only after Dhurandhar’s ₹500+ crore success to “capitalise on his momentum.”
A producer at the Producers Guild mediation (attended by Aamir Khan, Siddharth Roy Kapur) revealed: “Farhan Akhtar never had a bound script ready.” Reddit’s r/BollyBlindsNGossip claimed producers hesitated investing when Ranveer was finalized, though Hrithik’s statement directly contradicts speculation about franchise casting.
Don Franchise Legacy & Future Projects
Amitabh Bachchan originated Don (1978), Shah Rukh Khan revitalized it (2006, 2011), and Ranveer was positioned as the third-generation Don. With production stalled, Farhan shifted focus to Jee Le Zaraa starring Priyanka Chopra, Katrina Kaif, and Alia Bhatt.
Ranveer Singh: Dhurandhar 2 releases March 19, 2026, plus co-producing zombie thriller Pralay.
Hrithik Roshan: Directing Krrish 4 (debut) and launching HRX Films with Storm.
