The much-anticipated ‘Don 3’ is indeed happening, but with a surprising twist – Shah Rukh Khan will not be reprising his role as the titular character. The film’s director, Farhan Akhtar, took to social media to reveal that a new actor will step into the iconic role. Akhtar’s post began with a nod to the original Don portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan in 1978: “In 1978, a character created by Salim-Javed and portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan with effortless elan, captured the imagination of theatergoers across the country. That enigmatic character was Don. In 2006, Don was reimagined and brought to life by Shah Rukh Khan in his own irresistibly charming way.”
While Akhtar refrained from disclosing the identity of the new lead, reports have been circulating that Ranveer Singh might take over the role of Don. The film’s team, however, has not officially confirmed this news.
Reflecting on Shah Rukh Khan’s contribution to the series, Akhtar noted, “From Don’s sardonic wit to his cool but menacing fury, Shah Rukh Khan embodies his persona. As writer and director, I had a great time creating not one but two ‘Don’ films with Shah Rukh Khan and both experiences remain very close to my heart.”
Acknowledging the need for change, Akhtar announced, “The time now has come to take the legacy of Don forward and joining us in this new interpretation will be an actor whose talent and versatility I have long admired. We hope that you will show him the same love you have so graciously and generously shown to Mr. Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. A new era of Don begins in 2025. Watch this space.”
As fans await the unveiling of the new lead, Farhan Akhtar shared a brief teaser of “Don 3.” The teaser promises an exciting continuation of the franchise and fuels curiosity about the actor who will carry the Don legacy forward.
The Don franchise, initiated by Farhan Akhtar and producer Ritesh Sidhwani, first made waves in 2006 when it reimagined the classic 1978 film led by Amitabh Bachchan. Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra Jonas took on the lead roles in this modern adaptation. The success of the first installment led to a second film in 2011, with SRK and Priyanka reprising their roles.
Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar’s partner at Excel Entertainment, had previously confirmed the development of Don 3. Amidst the buzz surrounding the film, media reports suggest that the first teaser of Don 3, introducing Ranveer Singh as the new Don, might be released alongside the screenings of “Gadar 2” and “OMG 2.”
