'Niche, gimmicky script': SRK reportedly steps away from 'Don 3'

Plans to have Khan, Bachchan, and a rising star collaborate to be put on hold

A recent development revealed that producer Ritesh Sidhwani, who collaborates with Farhan Akhtar at Excel Entertainment, officially confirmed that the latter is actively working on the script for the highly anticipated Don 3.

This revelation triggered widespread speculation surrounding the potential involvement of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who had previously played the lead role in the first two instalments, with Priyanka Chopra Jonas by his side.

However, according to a recent report, it appears that the Pathaan star will not be reprising his iconic role in the upcoming offering, reports Times of India. Despite extensive discussions between Akhtar and Sidhwani about the project, SRK has conveyed his lack of enthusiasm for returning to the franchise, citing a divergence in the kind of cinema he currently wishes to pursue.

As per the report, the iconic actor is now determined to cater to a broader and more universal audience, and he perceives the script of Don 3 as being more niche in nature. Additionally, Khan allegedly considers the concept of the third instalment to be somewhat gimmicky at present, which has significantly influenced his decision to step away from the project.

Meanwhile, Akhtar had initially conceived the ambitious idea of bringing together three generations of actors to portray the titular character, including Amitabh Bachchan, Khan, and a rising star from the new generation. However, with SRK's exit from the project, discussions are currently underway to find a suitable replacement for the role.

This potential candidate has reportedly previously collaborated with Akhtar's production company in two films over the past decade. While the actor is keen to embrace the challenge, there is also a sense of reservation due to the immense legacy left by both Khan and Bachchan in their portrayals of the beloved anti-hero.

Looking ahead, the Don franchise is poised for a reboot, but this can only materialize once a promising young actor steps up to shoulder the iconic role. In the interim, Akhtar is actively engaged in the pre-production process of his upcoming film Jee Le Zaraa, featuring a star-studded cast including Alia Bhatt, Chopra-Jonas, and Katrina Kaif. As per writer Reema Kagti's confirmation, filming is scheduled to commence later this year.

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