Actor Ranveer Singh has landed in the middle of a major controversy after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) announced a non-cooperation directive against him over his reported exit from Don 3.
The decision comes amid an escalating dispute between the actor and Excel Entertainment, the production banner headed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani. According to reports, the producers have sought nearly Rs 45 crore in compensation for losses allegedly caused by Ranveer’s sudden withdrawal from the project.
FWICE announced the move during a press conference on Monday, urging members of the film industry not to collaborate with the actor until the matter is resolved. The federation said abrupt exits by established actors at critical stages of production create instability within the entertainment industry and impact workers across departments.
In its statement, FWICE stressed that filmmaking is a collaborative process involving producers, directors, technicians, workers and artists, all bound by professional trust and responsibility. The organisation warned that last-minute withdrawals from films can disrupt the industry’s functioning and set a dangerous precedent.
The controversy reportedly began after Excel Entertainment filed a complaint earlier this year claiming that Ranveer had signed a three-film agreement with the banner. The producers alleged that substantial amounts had already been spent on pre-production work for Don 3 before the actor stepped away from the film.
Reports also suggest that when FWICE attempted to mediate the dispute, Ranveer declined discussions with the federation, saying the issue should instead be handled through a more “appropriate” forum. Despite the strong stand, FWICE stated that it remains open to further dialogue in hopes of reaching an amicable settlement.
FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit had earlier criticised the growing trend of actors leaving projects shortly before production begins. Calling the matter “serious,” he warned that the federation would take action in the interest of protecting the industry.
The issue had also reportedly reached the Producers Guild of India, where senior industry members attempted to mediate between the actor and the production house. Sources claimed Excel Entertainment had already locked schedules and incurred major expenses before Ranveer’s reported departure.
Farhan Akhtar, while addressing the controversy in a recent interview, said the film industry has become increasingly unpredictable in recent years and that projects cannot be taken for granted until cameras finally roll.
Announced in 2023, Don 3 has faced repeated delays and several casting rumours. Actress Kiara Advani was initially expected to join the film, while speculation around Hrithik Roshan taking over the lead role also surfaced before being dismissed.
Meanwhile, Ranveer Singh is now focusing on his upcoming projects, including the ambitious zombie entertainer Pralay, which will mark his debut as a producer under his own banner. The actor was last seen in Dhurandhar: The Revenge, directed by Aditya Dhar.