Karan Veer Mehra Out of Don 3? Who's Really Playing Ranveer Singh's Foe!
Tue July 22nd, 2025
The internet has been abuzz with casting speculations for Farhan Akhtar's highly anticipated Don 3, starring Ranveer Singh in the titular role. Among the many rumors circulating, one prominent claim suggested that Karan Veer Mehra, fresh off his Bigg Boss 18 victory, was slated to play the main villain opposite Singh. However, we're here to set the record straight: Karan Veer Mehra is NOT playing the main antagonist in Don 3.
Sources close to the production house have definitively debunked these rumors, clarifying that while the search for Don 3's villain is indeed ongoing and a critical part of the casting process, Mehra is not in contention for the lead antagonist role.
The Buzz and The Reality: Unpacking the Don 3 Villain Hunt
The speculation around Karan Veer Mehra gained traction after reports emerged that he was spotted outside Excel Entertainment's office, the production banner behind the Don franchise. Furthermore, his recent intense transformation for an upcoming film titled Silaa reportedly caught the attention of industry insiders. While Mehra is a talented actor who has proven his mettle in various television shows and films, the role of Don 3's main villain is a highly coveted and complex one, demanding a specific blend of style, charisma, and danger to match Ranveer Singh's portrayal of Don.
Prior to Mehra, reports indicated that Vikrant Massey was in advanced discussions for the negative role. However, negotiations reportedly fell through, with some sources suggesting Massey desired more depth for the character. Names like Vijay Deverakonda and Aditya Roy Kapur were also circulated as potential contenders, though no official confirmations followed.
What We Know About Don 3's Casting and Production
Ranveer Singh has been officially confirmed as the new Don, taking over the mantle from Shah Rukh Khan and, before him, Amitabh Bachchan. Kriti Sanon has also been officially announced as the female lead, replacing Kiara Advani, who reportedly exited the project due to her pregnancy.
Farhan Akhtar returns to the director's chair for Don 3 after a considerable hiatus, his last directorial venture being Don 2 in 2011. This marks a significant moment for the franchise as it seeks to chart a new direction while retaining its high-octane, stylish essence.
Don 3 is currently in its pre-production phase, with filming expected to commence in January 2026. The film is eyeing a 2027 theatrical release, contingent on production schedules. The makers are actively searching for a suitable actor for the antagonist's role, reportedly looking for a younger talent who can bring freshness and a layered performance to the character.
Karan Veer Mehra's Confirmed Projects
While Don 3 is not on his immediate roster, Karan Veer Mehra certainly has exciting projects lined up. Fresh from his win on Bigg Boss 18, he is set to star in Omung Kumar's upcoming romantic-action drama, alongside Harshvardhan Rane and Sadia Khateeb. His first look as "Zehraak" from the film Silaa has also generated considerable interest, showcasing a fierce and battle-scarred avatar.
Fans of Karan Veer Mehra can look forward to seeing him in these confirmed ventures, but for now, the search for Ranveer Singh's formidable opponent in Don 3 continues. All eyes remain on Excel Entertainment for the official announcement of the next villain who will challenge the iconic Don.
POST YOUR COMMENTS