‘Don 3’ Row: Farhan Akhtar Takes Ranveer Singh Dispute to FWICE, Decision Expected To Be Taken Today – Report
Filmmaker Farhan Akhtar has taken his 'Don 3' dispute with actor Ranveer Singh to the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), with an official decision expected to be announced today during a press conference. The conflict stems from Singh’s sudden departure from the highly anticipated action film following the success of his movie 'Dhurandhar'.
The ongoing dispute surrounding the highly anticipated film Don 3 may be headed toward a resolution. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) is expected to announce its official stance today following a formal complaint filed by filmmaker Farhan Akhtar against actor Ranveer Singh. The film body confirmed it has reviewed the details of the complaint and will communicate its final decision during a scheduled press conference this afternoon. ‘Don 3’ Controversy: Ranveer Singh Wanted ‘Strong Language’, ‘Violence’ in Farhan Akhtar’s Film? Here’s What New Reports Claim.
Farhan Akhtar Approached Film Body After Ranveer Singh ‘Don 3’ Exit?
The conflict escalated after Akhtar took the matter to FWICE through the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), where he holds a membership. According to an official statement from FWICE, the apex body has thoroughly examined the complaint alongside the surrounding circumstances. The industry federation is set to publicly address its position and render its final decision today at approximately 4:00 PM.
The rift initially came to light in December 2025, when Ranveer Singh abruptly walked out of the action franchise. Singh had previously been locked in as the franchise's new lead actor for nearly two years, taking over the mantle from Shah Rukh Khan. Reports indicate that Singh's sudden departure occurred shortly after the major commercial success of his film Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar.
‘Don 3’ Script Disputes and Financial Damage
Industry sources suggest that creative differences over the script and the overall direction of the movie heavily contributed to the fallout. Reports indicate that Singh had requested late-stage modifications to the script, which did not sit well with the creators. Conversely, speculation also surfaced that Singh grew dissatisfied after learning that Akhtar had briefly considered replacing him with Hrithik Roshan during a brief career slump, a plan that was reportedly dropped after Dhurandhar became a box-office success.
Following the exit, Excel Entertainment, the production banner spearheaded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, allegedly sought INR 40 crore in financial damages from the actor. The producers maintained that substantial financial resources had already been exhausted during pre-production based on Singh’s prior approvals and commitments at every stage of development.
Future of the ‘Don’ Franchise
Prior to reaching FWICE, the dispute was brought before the Producers Guild of India. However, the Guild advised both parties to avoid lengthy legal avenues and resolve the financial and contractual disagreements amicably. Rumours also briefly tied veteran actor Aamir Khan to behind-the-scenes mediation talks, though Khan later denied any involvement in the matter.
Akhtar recently addressed the production roadblock during a media interaction, noting that filmmaking setbacks require resilience. He stated that the experience has taught him to "expect the unexpected" and to never take a project for granted until it is officially captured on film. ‘Dhurandhar2’ OTT Release Date: When and Where To Watch Ranveer Singh’s Blockbuster Espionage Thriller Online.
With the lead role currently vacant, speculation remains high regarding whether Don 3 will undergo a complete recasting process or if Akhtar will step in to headline the project himself. All eyes now remain on the FWICE press conference to see how the industry body plans to arbitrate the high-profile dispute.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 25, 2026 10:22 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).