Ranveer Singh Out of Don 3, Akshaye Khanna Exits Drishyam 3: After Dhurandhar’s Success, Who Can Replace Them?
Digital Desk
Ranveer Singh exits Don 3 and Akshaye Khanna walks out of Drishyam 3 after Dhurandhar’s success. Here’s who could replace them.
Ranveer Singh Out of Don 3: What Really Happened?
The Bollywood industry is buzzing after reports confirmed that Ranveer Singh is no longer part of Don 3. The development comes at a time when his latest film Dhurandhar is enjoying a historic box office run, crossing ₹900 crore worldwide in just 19 days and emerging as the highest-grossing film of the year.
While early reports claimed that Ranveer Singh voluntarily stepped away from Don 3 following Dhurandhar’s massive success, insider sources tell a different story. According to India Today, Ranveer Singh did not quit the film on his own. Instead, he was reportedly removed due to creative differences and what the makers described as unreasonable demands.
Sources reveal that producer Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani stood by Ranveer even after his recent box office setbacks and the shelving of Baiju Bawra. However, disagreements over the creative direction of Don 3 eventually led to a deadlock.
Strategic Shift in Ranveer’s Career
Industry insiders say Ranveer Singh is now focusing on diverse roles to avoid being typecast in gangster characters after Dhurandhar. He is prioritising collaborations with filmmakers like:
Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Lokesh Kanagaraj
Atlee
He has also reportedly asked producer Jay Mehta to begin shooting Pralay, a zombie-based emotional drama, before any future franchise commitments.
Akshaye Khanna Walks Out of Drishyam 3
In another major casting shake-up, Akshaye Khanna has reportedly exited Drishyam 3. As per Bollywood Machine, the actor stepped away due to financial and creative disagreements with the makers.
After the success of Dhurandhar, Akshaye allegedly demanded a substantial hike in remuneration and requested changes to his on-screen look. Negotiations reportedly failed, leading to his exit. However, no official statement has been issued yet.
Who Can Replace Ranveer Singh in Don 3?
With Ranveer Singh Don 3 now uncertain, several big names are being discussed:
Hrithik Roshan: Previously narrated the script, Hrithik has the charisma, action credibility, and screen presence to revive the iconic Don.
Ranbir Kapoor: After Animal, his intense and morally complex image fits a darker Don perfectly.
Vicky Kaushal: Known for grounded performances and versatility.
Tiger Shroff: Could bring a fresh, high-octane action-driven take to the franchise.
If Not Akshaye Khanna, Who Fits Drishyam 3?
Strong contenders to replace Akshaye Khanna in Drishyam 3 include:
Manoj Bajpayee: Known for intellectual intensity and moral ambiguity.
Jaideep Ahlawat: Brings raw realism and investigative depth.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui: Perfect for layered, unpredictable characters.
Kay Kay Menon: Adds gravitas and authority.
Jimmy Shergill: Reliable, restrained, and effective in suspense dramas.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Bollywood Franchises
The exits of Ranveer Singh from Don 3 and Akshaye Khanna from Drishyam 3 highlight how box office success can reshape power dynamics in Bollywood. As makers rethink casting strategies, audiences can expect bold reinventions of iconic franchises in the months ahead.
