Mumbai: Filmmaker and actor Farhan Akhtar has finally addressed the controversy surrounding Don 3 and Ranveer Singh’s sudden exit, describing the episode as a “messy” phase and a learning experience in his career.
Speaking in a recent interview, Farhan reflected on the uncertainty that surrounds filmmaking, especially in large-scale projects.
‘Nothing can be taken for granted’
Opening up about the situation, Farhan said the experience reinforced an important lesson for him.
“What I’ve learned is to expect the unexpected. Nothing can be taken for granted until you actually have it on film,” he said.
The filmmaker added that while the episode has been challenging, it is part of a broader journey that has largely been positive.
Reflects on career journey
Farhan recalled the early days of his career, mentioning collaborations with prominent actors such as Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna, Preity Zinta, Dimple Kapadia, and Saif Ali Khan, along with his long-time business partner Ritesh Sidhwani.
He said he has largely enjoyed working with people he admires, whether as a director or actor, and views occasional setbacks as part of the process.
“You realise that at some point, there will be a period that’s going to be a little bit more challenging… just take it in your stride,” he added.
What led to the Don 3 fallout
The controversy began when Ranveer Singh reportedly exited Don 3 after the release of his film Dhurandhar in December 2025.
Reports suggested that the sudden decision led to financial implications for the production, with nearly ₹40 crore already spent on pre-production by Excel Entertainment.
The situation escalated further when the matter was reportedly taken to the Producers Guild of India, where both sides were advised to resolve the dispute amicably.
Ongoing discussions
There have been conflicting reports regarding a possible settlement. Some claims suggested that Ranveer offered to return his signing amount and compensate the production house through a stake in his upcoming project Pralay.
However, sources close to the production have denied any final agreement, indicating that discussions are still ongoing and the issue remains unresolved.
Uncertain future for Don 3
The delay and uncertainty surrounding Don 3 have raised questions about the future of the popular franchise. The film, which was expected to be a major addition to the series, now faces delays amid the unresolved situation.
Conclusion
Farhan Akhtar’s remarks suggest a pragmatic approach to the controversy, viewing it as a professional setback rather than a defining moment. As talks continue, the future of Don 3 remains uncertain, with fans awaiting clarity on the project’s next steps.