Ranveer Singh has exited Don 3 and Akshaye Khanna has stepped away from Drishyam 3, both moves influenced by the blockbuster success of Dhurandhar. The film's impact has reshaped major casting decisions, causing delays and re-evaluations in two of Bollywood’s biggest franchises, highlighting how a single hit can transform industry dynamics.
Ranveer Singh has stepped away from Don 3, while Akshaye Khanna has exited Drishyam 3, both decisions coming on the heels of Dhurandhar’s blockbuster success. The ripple effect of this hit film is reshaping major casting plans and project timelines across Bollywood.
Ranveer Singh Exits Don 3
Ranveer Singh has reportedly quit Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3 after the overwhelming response to Dhurandhar. The actor is now prioritizing a zombie film tentatively titled Pralay, which he has requested to fast-track with producer Jai Mehta. This sudden shift has left Don 3’s makers scrambling for a new lead, with preparations for the film now pushed back. Kriti Sanon remains confirmed as the female lead, but the search for a new Don is underway. The project was set to begin filming by late January 2026, but this delay could impact the entire production schedule.
Akshaye Khanna Out of Drishyam 3
Akshaye Khanna has reportedly stepped away from Drishyam 3 following disagreements over remuneration and creative aspects, including demands for a fee hike and changes to his character’s on-screen look. After Dhurandhar’s massive box office run, which crossed 600 crores, Khanna’s market value has surged, leading to these new demands. Negotiations between the actor and the makers are still ongoing, but as of now, no official confirmation has been made regarding his exit or replacement. The sequel’s timeline is now uncertain ahead of its planned 2026 release.
Dhurandhar’s Impact on Bollywood
The casting of Dhurandhar was meticulously planned over a year and a half, with Mukesh Chhabra revealing that the team spent significant time considering multiple actors before finalizing choices. Akshaye Khanna’s portrayal of Rehman Dakait has received widespread acclaim, elevating his status and giving him greater leverage in negotiations. Ranveer Singh’s decision to exit Don 3 for Pralay highlights how a single hit film can dramatically alter an actor’s career trajectory and project priorities.
These developments underscore how Dhurandhar’s success is not just a box office story but a game-changer in Bollywood’s casting and production landscape. The film’s impact continues to reverberate, reshaping the future of major franchises and projects.
Source: India Today, News18, Hindustan Times, Filmfare, Telly Chakkar, Bollywood Machine, Times of India
