Farhan Akhtar addresses Don 3 backlash following Ranveer Singh’s exit

Farhan Akhtar has spoken out for the first time on the controversy surrounding Don 3 after Ranveer Singh’s sudden exit, describing the episode as a “messy” phase that offered key lessons.

Farhan breaks silence

In a recent interview with Hollywood Reporter India, Farhan reflected on the uncertainty that disrupted the project, saying the experience reinforced how unpredictable filmmaking can be. “What I’ve learned is to expect the unexpected. Nothing can be taken for granted until you actually have it on film,” he said.

Despite the setback, Farhan struck a composed note, stressing that one difficult chapter does not define his journey. Looking back at his career since Dil Chahta Hai, he spoke about working with actors like Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Akshaye Khanna, Preity Zinta and Dimple Kapadia, along with longtime collaborator Ritesh Sidhwani.

“You realise there will be phases that are more challenging… you take it in your stride,” he added.

What triggered the fallout

The dispute began after Ranveer walked away from Don 3, which Farhan was set to direct under Excel Entertainment. The project had already incurred significant pre-production costs, reportedly around ₹40 crore.

The matter is said to have reached the Producers Guild of India, where both sides presented their positions. While the production maintained that the script had been approved throughout development, Ranveer’s side reportedly cited delays and shifting priorities as reasons for his exit.

The Guild is understood to have advised an amicable resolution rather than legal escalation.

No resolution yet

Reports earlier suggested that Ranveer had offered to return his signing amount and compensate the production in other ways. However, those claims were later denied by sources close to the makers, who said discussions are ongoing and no agreement has been finalised.

For now, Don 3 remains uncertain, with the disagreement unresolved and the project’s future hanging in the balance.