Recent reports suggest a potential casting shake-up in Farhan Akhtar's highly anticipated "Don 3," with rumors swirling that Vijay Deverakonda may replace Vikrant Massey as the film's antagonist. This speculation comes amidst other significant casting updates, including Ranveer Singh stepping into the iconic role of Don, previously portrayed by Shah Rukh Khan, and Kiara Advani potentially being replaced by Kriti Sanon as the female lead.

The initial announcement of Vikrant Massey as the villain generated considerable excitement, especially after his critically acclaimed performance in '12th Fail'. Sources indicated that Massey had officially signed on to play the antagonist, a character poised to challenge Ranveer Singh's Don in unprecedented ways. However, new reports have emerged stating that Vijay Deverakonda is now expected to take on the role.

Farhan Akhtar's decision to cast Ranveer Singh as the new Don was driven by the script's need for a "next-generation actor". Akhtar noted that Ranveer's energy and untapped potential align perfectly with the character, offering him a chance to showcase a different side of his acting.

The potential inclusion of Vijay Deverakonda as the villain adds another layer of intrigue. Deverakonda, known for his charisma and popularity, particularly among female audiences, could bring a unique dynamic to the film. Some reports suggest that Akhtar believes Deverakonda would be the perfect choice for the antagonist, given his mass appeal.

Adding to the buzz, there are also reports of Shah Rukh Khan making a cameo in "Don 3," potentially bridging the gap between the old and new Don universes. This would mark the first on-screen appearance of Shah Rukh Khan and Ranveer Singh together, further fueling fan excitement.

While Kiara Advani was initially announced as part of the cast, rumors suggest she may have exited the project, possibly due to her pregnancy. Kriti Sanon's recent birthday message to Ranveer Singh sparked speculation that she has replaced Advani as the female lead. However, some insiders believe the production team is working to align schedules and ensure Advani remains part of the cast. Priyanka Chopra, who played Roma in the previous "Don" films, is also rumored to potentially reprise her role.

"Don 3" is shaping up to be a significant cinematic event, blending nostalgia with a fresh, contemporary approach. With Ranveer Singh leading the charge, the potential additions of Vijay Deverakonda, Shah Rukh Khan, and either Kriti Sanon or Kiara Advani promise a thrilling new chapter in the "Don" franchise. The film is expected to begin production in January 2026 and is slated for a 2026 release.