Don 3 Twist: SRK Reclaims the Throne as Ranveer Exits

New Delhi, january 17, 2026: In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the Indian film industry, the casting for the highly anticipated Don 3 has reportedly taken a 180-degree turn. After months of backlash and mixed reactions following the initial announcement of Ranveer Singh as the new face of the franchise, the latest reports suggest that the original “King of the Underworld,” Shah Rukh Khan, is in talks to reclaim his throne.

This dramatic shift comes amid news of Ranveer Singh’s exit from the project, a move that has reopened the door for the comeback fans have been demanding for years.

The Exit of Ranveer Singh: What Went Wrong?

Just a year ago, Farhan Akhtar and Excel Entertainment officially introduced Ranveer Singh as the successor to the Don legacy, aiming to reboot the franchise for a younger generation. However, several factors have reportedly led to his departure:

• Creative Differences: Sources close to the production suggest that despite the makers’ initial faith in Ranveer, creative disagreements emerged regarding the film’s tone and direction.
• The “Dhurandhar” Factor: Following the massive box office success of his recent spy-thriller Dhurandhar, Ranveer Singh has reportedly become more selective. Insiders claim he is hesitant to play back-to-back “gangster” or “anti-hero” roles to avoid typecasting.
• A Shift in Priorities: Reports indicate that Ranveer is now focusing on collaborations with directors like Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Lokesh Kanagaraj, leading to an amicable but firm split from the Don franchise.

The Return of the King: SRK’s “One Major Condition”

While the news of Shah Rukh Khan’s potential return has set social media ablaze, the superstar’s comeback isn’t without its caveats. According to industry insiders, SRK has expressed a willingness to return to the franchise that defined his suave, ruthless action persona—but with a significant twist.

The “Atlee” Condition: Reports suggest that Shah Rukh Khan has asked the makers to bring on board director Atlee, with whom he collaborated for the record-breaking blockbuster Jawan.

The superstar reportedly believes that Atlee’s vision for high-octane, large-scale action is exactly what the Don franchise needs to compete in the current global cinematic landscape. While Farhan Akhtar has directed the previous two installments, the involvement of Atlee could mean a massive upgrade in the film’s production value and “mass” appeal.

Casting Shake-ups: A New Lead Pair?

The drama behind the scenes isn’t limited to the titular role. The female lead has also seen a revolving door of A-list talent:

While Kiara Advani was initially signed for the film, recent updates suggest she has exited the project, with Kriti Sanon now being touted as the frontrunner to play the female lead alongside the legendary Don.

What This Means for the Franchise

The Don series remains one of Bollywood’s most valuable IPs. While Amitabh Bachchan originated the role in 1978, Shah Rukh Khan’s 2006 and 2011 versions turned the character into a modern pop-culture phenomenon.

If the deal with SRK and Atlee is finalized, Don 3 is expected to be one of the biggest cinematic events of the decade. For now, the “Chase” continues—not just for the police, but for the makers trying to secure the ultimate leading man.