Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, May 26: Ranveer Singh has issued an official statement after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) imposed a non-cooperation directive against him amid the ongoing controversy surrounding Don 3.
The development came after FWICE announced its decision during a press conference on Monday following reports of Singh’s abrupt exit from the much-anticipated film directed by Farhan Akhtar.
FWICE has effectively barred Singh from collaborating with members of the federation until the dispute is resolved. The organisation has also backed the producers’ demand seeking reimbursement of alleged pre-production losses amounting to Rs 45 crore.
Responding to the controversy, the actor’s spokesperson said Singh had deliberately maintained silence throughout 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 said.
The statement added that Singh would not publicly comment further on the matter and wished success to the Don franchise.
“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,” it stated.
The controversy began after reports claimed that Singh exited Don 3 shortly before filming was scheduled to begin. The issue later reached the Producers Guild of India, where senior producers reportedly attempted to mediate between the actor and Excel Entertainment, headed by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani.
According to FWICE, Excel Entertainment filed a complaint in April alleging that Singh had signed a three-film agreement with the banner. The producers also sought compensation over heavy pre-production expenses incurred before the actor’s reported exit.
FWICE criticised last-minute withdrawals by actors, saying such actions affect the stability of the entertainment industry.
“The Federation considers all artists, technicians, workers, producers, directors and members from every craft as part of one family bound together by mutual trust and collective responsibility,” the organisation stated.
FWICE further claimed that when it attempted to mediate the issue, Singh declined to discuss the matter with the federation, reportedly stating that the matter required an “appropriate” forum. However, the organisation said it remains open to discussions for an amicable settlement.
FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit described the matter as “very serious” and warned against actors walking out of projects close to production schedules.
Directed by Farhan Akhtar, Don 3 has remained under public scrutiny since its announcement in 2023, with reports of delays and casting changes. Kiara Advani was earlier linked to the project before reports suggested the collaboration did not proceed.
Ranveer Singh was last seen in Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which reportedly emerged as a major box office success. The actor is now said to be focusing on his upcoming zombie thriller Pralay, which will also mark his debut as a producer.