Don 3 on Hold: Farhan Akhtar Revives ‘Jee Le Zaraa’ After Ranveer’s Exit

New Delhi, january 29, 2026: In a surprising turn of events for Bollywood enthusiasts, filmmaker Farhan Akhtar has reportedly hit the “pause” button on the high-octane actioner Don 3 to revive his long-gestating dream project, Jee Le Zaraa.

This strategic shift comes on the heels of Ranveer Singh’s reported exit from the Don franchise, leaving the director at a creative crossroads. Here is the latest update on how the “Road Trip” movie is finally getting back on track.

The Don 3 Dilemma: Why the Delay?

The third installment of the iconic Don series has faced a rocky road since its announcement. Following the departure of original star Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh was set to take the mantle. However, recent reports from January 2026 suggest that Ranveer has moved on from the project due to creative differences and a packed schedule following his massive success with Dhurandhar.

Rather than rushing a new casting decision for such a crucial role, Farhan Akhtar has decided to take his time. Insiders suggest that:

• The search for the “perfect Don” is a lengthy process that Farhan doesn’t want to compromise.
• Production on Don 3 is officially on the back burner until the right lead is secured.
• Rumors are even swirling about a potential return of Shah Rukh Khan, though nothing is confirmed.

Reviving the “Friendship Trilogy”

With the Don franchise in limbo, Farhan has redirected his creative energy toward Jee Le Zaraa. Conceived as the female-led spiritual successor to Dil Chahta Hai and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, the film has been stalled since 2021 primarily due to the “trauma” of aligning the schedules of its three A-list stars.

The Powerhouse Trio

According to recent industry buzz, the original cast remains committed to the vision:

1. Priyanka Chopra Jonas
2. Katrina Kaif
3. Alia Bhatt

“Jee Le Zaraa has always been special for Farhan. He felt this was the right moment to revive discussions with the original team and push the film forward,” a source shared.

What’s Next for Jee Le Zaraa?

The script is locked, and the creative blueprint is ready. The only remaining hurdle is the “common window” for the lead actresses.

• Timeline: Reports indicate that if date negotiations go smoothly, the film could finally go on floors in the second half of 2026.
• Production: The project remains a collaboration between Excel Entertainment and Tiger Baby, bringing the trio of Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar, and Reema Kagti back together.

While fans may have to wait longer to see who becomes the next face of the underworld in Don 3, the prospect of seeing three of Bollywood’s biggest queens on a road trip together is a silver lining that has the industry buzzing once again.