Ranveer Singh Breaks Silence On ‘Industry Ban’ Buzz Amid Don 3 Row With Farhan Akhtar

Actor Ranveer Singh has finally broken his silence after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued a non-cooperation directive against him amid the escalating Don 3 controversy.

The move came days after reports claimed the actor exited the much-awaited project directed by Farhan Akhtar shortly before filming was scheduled to begin.

FWICE announced its decision during a press conference on Monday, stating that the federation would not cooperate with Singh until the matter is resolved. The body also supported Excel Entertainment’s reported demand seeking compensation of nearly Rs 45 crore for alleged pre-production losses linked to the actor’s exit.

Reacting to the controversy, Singh’s spokesperson issued an official statement, stressing that the actor had deliberately chosen not to engage publicly with the issue.

“Ranveer Singh holds the highest regard for the film fraternity and for everyone associated with the Don franchise. Throughout the recent developments surrounding Don 3, he has consciously chosen to maintain silence, believing that professional discussions and personal equations are best handled with dignity, maturity and mutual respect,” the statement read.

The statement further added that Singh would continue to avoid discussing the matter in public while wishing the franchise success. “While several narratives and speculations have surfaced over time, Ranveer has never considered it necessary to respond publicly or contribute to conjecture. His focus remains firmly on his work and the commitments ahead. He continues to hold deep respect and goodwill for all those involved and sincerely wishes the franchise continued success,” it added.

How the controversy escalated

The dispute reportedly began after Singh allegedly stepped away from Don 3 just days before production was expected to commence. The matter was later taken to the Producers Guild of India, where senior industry figures reportedly attempted mediation between the actor and Excel Entertainment, the banner headed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.

According to FWICE, the production house informed the federation that Singh had signed a three-film agreement with the banner. The organisation criticised last-minute exits by actors, calling them damaging to the industry’s working ecosystem.

“FWICE firmly believes that the entire film industry functions as one extended family,” the body said in its statement, adding that sudden withdrawals from projects at critical stages threaten professional trust and financial stability.

FWICE also alleged that Singh declined to discuss the issue directly with the federation, reportedly stating that the matter should be handled through an “appropriate forum”. Despite the standoff, the organisation said it remains open to further dialogue.

FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit had earlier termed the situation “very serious”, warning that such exits could set a damaging precedent for the film industry.

Meanwhile, Don 3 continues to face uncertainty. Ever since its announcement in 2023, the project has witnessed repeated delays and multiple casting-related reports. Actress Kiara Advani was earlier linked to the film before reports suggested the collaboration did not materialise.

On the work front, Ranveer Singh is reportedly focusing on his upcoming zombie thriller Pralay, which is also expected to mark his debut as a producer.