Don 3 dispute intensifies as Excel Entertainment reportedly seeks ₹40 crore from Ranveer Singh after his alleged exit. Producers Guild steps in for mediation.
The much-anticipated Don 3 has run into serious trouble as the Don 3 dispute between Ranveer Singh and Excel Entertainment intensifies. Reports suggest that the production house is seeking ₹40 crore in compensation following the actor’s alleged exit from the high-budget franchise.
The development has sent shockwaves across Bollywood, raising fresh questions about creative commitments, financial accountability, and the future of the iconic Don franchise.
Why Excel Entertainment Is Seeking ₹40 Crore
Industry sources indicate that Excel Entertainment, co-founded by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, claims to have incurred substantial pre-production expenses before Ranveer Singh’s reported withdrawal in December 2025.
These expenses allegedly include:
- Script development costs
- Location scouting
- Scheduling and logistics planning
- Departmental team commitments
- Early production investments
Sources claim the film was preparing to begin principal photography in January 2026, and the exit came at a critical stage. According to insiders, Excel considers these investments as significant sunk costs tied directly to the project’s timeline and lead casting.
The Don 3 dispute has now reportedly reached the Producers Guild of India (PGI), which has already conducted at least two closed-door mediation sessions between both parties.
Ranveer Singh’s Stand: “Not a Single Paisa”
Ranveer Singh has strongly contested the compensation claim. According to sources familiar with the discussions, the actor emphasized that he did not receive any advance payment or signing amount for Don 3.
He reportedly argued that:
- No fee was accepted from Excel Entertainment
- He personally committed time and scheduling blocks
- He declined other major opportunities
One example cited during mediation was Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Baiju Bawra, for which Singh reportedly invested nearly a year in preparation before the project was shelved or redirected toward other ventures such as Love & War.
The actor has allegedly described the ₹40 crore claim as unjustified, maintaining that he too faced opportunity losses due to long production delays.
Creative Differences and Script Concerns
The Don 3 dispute appears to extend beyond finances. Reports suggest Ranveer raised concerns about:
- Absence of a finalized bound script
- Repeated timeline delays
- Inconsistent creative feedback
- Alleged exploration of alternative casting options
Entertainment insiders claim that Hrithik Roshan’s name was explored at one stage before discussions reportedly returned to Ranveer Singh. During mediation, Singh is said to have questioned the producers’ long-term commitment to the project.
There are also reports that he referenced Shah Rukh Khan’s original association with the franchise, suggesting that project dynamics might have differed had the superstar returned.
Excel representatives, however, maintain that multiple script drafts were approved at various stages and that Singh’s departure came unexpectedly.
Don 3 Now on Indefinite Hold
Don 3 was officially announced in August 2023, with Ranveer Singh stepping into a role previously portrayed by Shah Rukh Khan in the 2006 and 2011 installments. The announcement teaser generated massive online buzz and strong fan reactions.
However, repeated delays slowed momentum. With the latest Don 3 dispute, the project now appears to be on indefinite hold.
Sources suggest that Excel has begun downsizing teams associated with the project, with some department heads advised to explore other assignments. Meanwhile, Farhan Akhtar is reportedly shifting focus to other ventures, including Jee Le Zaraa.
Social media observers also noted that Farhan Akhtar recently unfollowed Ranveer Singh on Instagram, although neither side has issued an official statement confirming or denying the dispute.
Industry Impact and What Happens Next
The escalation of the Don 3 dispute highlights the high financial risks tied to long-gestating Bollywood productions. Large-scale films often involve crores of rupees in early planning before cameras even roll.
The involvement of the Producers Guild of India suggests both parties may be seeking a mediated settlement rather than a public legal battle. Courtroom proceedings could damage reputations and future collaborations within the industry.
As of publication, neither Ranveer Singh nor Excel Entertainment has made an official public comment.
The future of Don 3 remains uncertain. Whether the franchise is recast, revived, or quietly shelved will depend largely on how this high-profile dispute is resolved.
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