'It was supposed to happen': Arjun Das confirms Don 3 talks with Farhan Akhtar before Ranveer Singh

Arjun Das, Farhan Akhtar and Ranveer Singh. Pics via Instagram and X

Tamil actor Arjun Das has revealed that he was once in talks with Farhan Akhtar for Don 3, adding another twist to the long-running uncertainty around the much-awaited franchise. The actor confirmed that he had met Farhan and discussed a role in the film, which was set to feature Ranveer Singh as the new Don before his exit from the project.

Arjun Das confirms Don 3 talks with Farhan Akhtar

Speaking to News18, Arjun recalled receiving a call from Farhan and said the two had even discussed the part. "I was very, very fortunate to have received a call from Farhan sir. We did meet, we discussed the part, but unfortunately, that isn't happening now," he said.

While the collaboration is no longer going ahead, Arjun made it clear that his meeting with Farhan left a positive impression. "I am hoping, and I hope I get to work with Farhan sir soon. I think he is one of the sweetest and most humble people I have met," he added.

Arjun Das also acknowledged that the project had been discussed seriously at one point. "I don't want to lie about it. It was supposed to happen, but now it's not happening," he said. He further revealed that he will soon be seen in another Hindi project, which is currently in post-production.

Ranveer Singh's Don 3 exit leaves film uncertain

Don 3 was announced in 2023 with Ranveer Singh taking over the role previously played by Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. However, the project was delayed, and Ranveer eventually exited. The Indian Express reported in May that the actor's departure had been linked to disagreements over the production schedule and the lack of a finalised script, while India Today also reported claims of creative differences between Ranveer and Excel Entertainment.

The dispute subsequently moved beyond the film itself. NDTV reported in February that Excel Entertainment was seeking around Rs 40 crore in compensation following Ranveer's exit, while later reports put the figure at around Rs 45 crore. In May, FWICE issued a non-cooperation directive against Ranveer after Farhan and producer Ritesh Sidhwani approached the federation, according to The Indian Express. The directive was later withdrawn.

With Arjun Das now confirming that his own discussions for Don 3 have fallen through, the film's future and eventual cast remain unclear.