Bollywood star Ranveer Singh has been officially banned by the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) following his sudden exit from Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3.
The actor, coming off the success of Dhurandhar 2, has been issued a Non-Cooperation Directive (NCD), effectively barring the industry from working with him until he resolves the Rs 45 crore damages claimed by Don 3 producers Excel Entertainment. The ban was announced at a press conference on Monday, a week after FWICE took up the matter following a complaint from Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, reports The Week.
“Sudden exits from projects by senior actors at crucial stages threaten the stability and working ecology of the industry,” the federation said. It added that Bollywood functions as “one extended family” where every individual contributes to a project’s success.
Ranveer responded, stating he chose to remain silent, believing “professional discussions and personal equations are best handled with dignity, maturity and mutual respect.” He expressed goodwill toward all involved and wished the franchise continued success.
The April exit row
The dispute dates back to mid-2024, following the moderate box office performance of Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani after earlier flops Jayeshbhai Jordaar and Cirkus. Social media backlash over his replacement of Shah Rukh Khan and alleged creative differences reportedly created uncertainty around Don 3’s production.
While waiting for Excel Entertainment’s go-ahead, Ranveer took up Dhurandhar in late 2024. After the film’s success, Excel hyped Don 3, but Ranveer declined the role in April 2026.
Going forward
In their complaint, Excel claimed pre-production costs totalling Rs 45 crore incurred before Ranveer’s exit must be borne by him. FWICE noted the actor refused to discuss the matter directly, insisting it required an “appropriate forum.”
The federation stressed that while the NCD is in place, it remains open to amicable resolution and highlighted the importance of honoring contracts for industry stability.
