A behind-the-scenes dispute has emerged between Ranveer Singh and Excel Entertainment over the upcoming Don 3 film, with the actor refusing a 40-crore compensation demand from the production house.

Don 3 was announced in 2023, with Ranveer taking over the lead role previously portrayed by Shah Rukh Khan in Don (2006) and Don 2 (2011). Pre-production progressed through 2025, but reports indicate Ranveer exited the project due to creative differences following the release of his film Dhurandhar.

Excel Entertainment, led by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, reportedly sought 40 crore from Ranveer, citing pre-production expenses. The matter was reviewed in two meetings mediated by the Producers Guild of India, with both parties presenting their cases.

Ranveer contested the claim, arguing that he had not received any payment for Don 3 and therefore was not liable for compensation. He highlighted a previous example from his career—the shelved Baiju Bawra project, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali—where he invested nearly a year preparing for the role without financial recovery after the film was shelved.

A source stated, “Ranveer used the Baiju Bawra example to underline that in the film industry, actors often commit time and effort to projects that don’t materialize, without any compensation. He further noted that Shah Rukh Khan was reportedly approached to return to Don 3, which would have replaced him without compensation. Hence, he felt justified in rejecting the 40-crore demand.”

The standoff leaves Don 3’s future uncertain, with industry insiders speculating whether the franchise will proceed with Ranveer, revert to Shah Rukh Khan, or remain stalled. The situation has drawn significant attention, as one of Bollywood’s most popular action franchises faces yet another twist.