After years of speculation, delays, and casting controversies, the highly anticipated Bollywood action-thriller Don 3 is finally set to roll cameras in January 2026. Directed by Farhan Akhtar, the third installment of the iconic Don film franchise will introduce Ranveer Singh as the new face of Don, replacing Shah Rukh Khan, whose portrayal of the character became legendary in the previous two films.

The news marks a significant moment for Indian cinema, as fans brace themselves for a new era in one of Bollywood’s most successful and stylish franchises.

Ranveer Singh Replaces Shah Rukh Khan in Don 3

The decision to cast Ranveer Singh as Don created waves of online backlash when it was first announced. Loyal fans of Shah Rukh Khan took to social media, expressing their disappointment and questioning the casting change. However, industry insiders reveal that the production team chose to stay silent, allowing the criticism to cool down before proceeding with official updates.

“Farhan and Ranveer mutually agreed to take a step back from the spotlight after the initial backlash. It gave Ranveer time to train and prepare for the physically demanding role,”

Ranveer has reportedly undergone intensive martial arts training to match the intensity and charisma associated with the character. From high-octane chase sequences to gritty action scenes, Don 3 promises to showcase the actor in a completely new avatar.

Filming Schedule and Release Date

According to sources, principal photography for Don 3 will begin in January 2026, with a theatrical release planned for December 2026. After facing multiple delays, the production team has now finalized timelines and logistics, ensuring no further roadblocks.

“The script is locked, locations are being finalized, and the core cast is ready. The vision is to take Don 3 global—with larger-than-life action, international settings, and high production value,” the source added.

Kiara Advani Joins as Female Lead, Replacing Priyanka Chopra?

Kiara Advani was brought on board to play the female lead, stepping into the role previously portrayed by Priyanka Chopra Jonas. However, her pregnancy and subsequent schedule changes caused further delays in the film’s production timeline.

Despite this, Kiara remains committed to the project, and filming schedules have now been aligned to accommodate her return. Fans are curious to see how her character will evolve in the Don cinematic universe, especially in the absence—or possible return—of Chopra.

Farhan Akhtar’s Other Commitments Delayed Don 3

Director Farhan Akhtar was simultaneously involved in another ambitious film project titled 120 Bahadur, a war drama where he stars as Major Shaitan Singh, a real-life hero from the 1962 Indo-China war. The film is set to release on November 21, 2025 and had consumed much of Farhan’s attention, leading to delays in Don 3’s pre-production.

Now that 120 Bahadur has wrapped filming and is in post-production, Farhan is all set to return to the director’s chair for the high-octane crime saga.

Priyanka Chopra’s Return: A Surprise Twist?

One of the most intriguing updates from insiders is the possibility of Priyanka Chopra re-entering the Don franchise. Chopra played the role of Roma, an intelligence officer and Don’s love interest, in the previous two films.

“Discussions are ongoing. There’s a real possibility that Priyanka Chopra may return to Don 3, though nothing is confirmed,” the source said.

If true, her return could bring major excitement among longtime fans and potentially reshape the storyline. Whether she appears in a cameo or a full-fledged role remains to be seen, but her presence would undoubtedly add weight to the reboot.

Don 3: What to Expect from the Reboot

While Don (2006) and Don 2 (2011) were both commercial hits and critically praised, Don 3 is expected to be a complete reimagining, blending legacy elements with a modern twist. With Ranveer Singh leading the cast, Farhan Akhtar returning as director, and international locations being scouted, the film is aiming for global appeal.

Likely Features:

• High-octane action sequences

• A darker, edgier Don persona

• Larger-than-life visuals and set pieces

• Deep storyline interlinking old characters and new arcs

Producers are reportedly planning to shoot in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, mirroring Don’s global underworld empire.

Why the Franchise Still Matters

The Don series isn’t just another action movie saga—it’s a cultural brand in Indian cinema. Originally introduced in 1978 with Amitabh Bachchan in the lead, the character of Don was resurrected by Shah Rukh Khan and Farhan Akhtar in 2006. Since then, it has grown into one of the most iconic franchises in Bollywood history.

As the new chapter unfolds, fans are both skeptical and hopeful. Can Ranveer Singh carry forward the legacy? Will Farhan Akhtar recreate the magic of the previous films?

Only time—and the box office—will tell.

Don 3 marks a bold and ambitious reboot of a beloved franchise. With Ranveer Singh stepping into the shoes of Don, Farhan Akhtar back at the helm, and potential surprises like Priyanka Chopra’s return, the film promises to be one of the biggest cinematic events of 2026.

As shooting begins in January 2026 and the release looms in December, fans can expect a thrilling journey into the dark and stylish world of Don.

Stay tuned to KKNLive.com for exclusive updates on Don 3, Bollywood’s latest news, behind-the-scenes coverage, and more.