Farhan Akhtar has stirred fresh controversy by taking a subtle dig at Ranveer Singh’s abrupt exit from Don 3, remarking that such last-minute walkouts “seem to be a pattern nowadays.” His comments, made during an interview marking 25 years of Dil Chahta Hai, have reignited discussions around the fallout between the filmmaker and the actor.
Farhan’s Remark and Context
While recalling how Saif Ali Khan almost quit Dil Chahta Hai just before filming due to scheduling conflicts, Farhan noted the heartbreak of losing a lead actor so close to production. He then added, “It was maybe about a month away from filming, which seems to be a pattern nowadays… Not just with me.” The remark, though indirect, was widely interpreted as a reference to Ranveer Singh’s sudden exit from Don 3 in 2025, just weeks before shooting was set to begin.
The Don 3 Controversy
Ranveer Singh Exit: Ranveer reportedly walked away from Don 3 after disputes with Excel Entertainment, alleging Farhan had approached Hrithik Roshan for the role behind his back.
Industry Fallout: The move triggered legal notices, guild interventions, and divided opinions within Bollywood. Reports suggested Excel had already spent ₹40–45 crore on pre-production, making the exit financially damaging.
FWICE Involvement: The Federation of Western India Cine Employees briefly announced a non-cooperation directive against Ranveer, later revoked after clarification.
Farhan’s Perspective
Farhan has previously spoken about the unpredictability of filmmaking, saying the Don 3 episode taught him to “expect the unexpected” and that nothing can be taken for granted until it is captured on film. His latest remark, however, adds a sharper edge, hinting at frustration with actors backing out at crucial stages.
Industry and Audience Reaction
Anupama Chopra’s Response: During the interview, critic Anupama Chopra laughed at Farhan’s pointed comment, acknowledging the obvious reference.
Public Speculation: Fans and industry insiders quickly connected the dots, reigniting debates about professionalism and accountability in Bollywood.
Ranveer’s Silence: Ranveer Singh has chosen not to comment publicly on the matter, reportedly avoiding interviews for 18 months to steer clear of the controversy.
