Don 3 set to roll in January 2026, Kiara Advani back on board; surprise cameo by Priyanka Chopra in the works? Here's what we know

Don 3 update

After a string of production setbacks, Don 3, one of Bollywood's most anticipated action thrillers, appears to be finally ready to go.

A recent report claims that director Farhan Akhtar has changed his plans to start filming in January 2026, with a possible theatrical release date of the end of 2026.

The film stars Kiara Advani, who will play the female lead, and Ranveer Singh, who will reprise Shah Rukh Khan's iconic role.

While earlier reports speculated that Kiara Advani might step away from the film due to her pregnancy, it appears the actress is now committed to the project.

As reported by Bollywood Hungama, a source close to the film told veteran journalist Subhash K. Jha, “Yes, there’s been a delay — but it couldn’t be helped. Ranveer Singh, who replaced Shah Rukh Khan in the franchise, had to deal with a wave of online trolling for ‘daring’ to step into SRK’s shoes. Farhan and Ranveer mutually decided to lie low and let the heat die down. Ranveer also needed time to physically and mentally prepare for the role, which requires rigorous martial arts training."

The source added further complications were caused when, “Kiara Advani — who was signed on to replace Priyanka Chopra as the female lead — got pregnant. Farhan had to halt the film’s progress due to her changed circumstances.”

Additionally, Farhan Akhtar became busy with his own acting commitments, notably his intense war drama 120 Bahadur, where he plays Major Shaitan Singh. The war film is set for release on 21 November 2025.

Amidst all this, there’s a major development that could delight long-time fans of the franchise: “There is a possibility that Priyanka Chopra may return to the Don franchise,” the source hinted, suggesting a surprise cameo or supporting role.

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There is additional excitement surrounding Don 3 because it also marks the reunion of Vikrant Massey and Ranveer Singh following their roles in Dil Dhadakne Do.

While Kiara Advani enjoys a more sedate moment in life as she gets ready to welcome her first child with actor-husband Sidharth Malhotra, Ranveer Singh, who turned 40 on July 6th, recently released the fierce first look from his upcoming film Dhurandhar.