Farhan Akhtar reveals NOT Shah Rukh Khan but Hrithik Roshan was the initial choice for Don; ‘When I was writing…’

Farhan Akhtar reveals NOT Shah Rukh Khan but Hrithik Roshan was the initial choice for Don; ‘When I was writing…’

As a dedicated follower of the glamorous world of Bollywood, I have had the privilege of witnessing the evolution of some iconic characters, and none more so than the enigmatic Don, a role that has been graced by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, the charismatic Shah Rukh Khan, and soon, the dynamic Ranveer Singh.


In the realm of Bollywood, I proudly took on the challenge of recreating Amitabh Bachchan’s iconic 1978 film, Don, with the charismatic Shah Rukh Khan. The film hit the screens in 2006 and was later followed by its sequel, Don 2, in 2011. As we eagerly await the third installment, I find myself reminiscing about a promise made to Hrithik Roshan regarding this movie. However, fate had other plans, as it was Shahrukh Khan who ultimately donned the iconic role.

In a recent chat on the Raj Shamani podcast, Farhan Akhtar shared that he and Hrithik Roshan had an “outstanding” and “enjoyable” collaboration during their work together on Lakshya. Later, Akhtar spoke to Roshan about re-making Don, which Roshan found “fascinating”.

Later on, Farhan recalled discussing with Hrithik that he would give it to him once he was done writing it. Yet, the actor mentioned that throughout his writing process, Shah Rukh Khan was the only one who came to mind as the ideal candidate for the role. He explained, “While I was writing, no one else’s face kept appearing except Shah Rukh’s, based on my personal experiences with him,” emphasizing their past interactions at parties and shared friends in Delhi rather than his perception of Khan’s film persona.

As an ardent admirer, I couldn’t help but feel that no one else but Shah Rukh Khan could embody the role in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. His charismatic persona, quick wit, and knack for sarcastic, self-effacing humor made me believe he was the perfect choice to portray the “best actor” for this part.

Earlier on, Farhan had assured Hrithik about the movie. He then remembered mentioning to Hrithik that he planned to cast SRK in the film. “I will always remember,” he added, “he told me, ‘Farhan, you need to make your film in the best way you can. If you believe he’s the right fit, go ahead and call him. Don’t worry about me.’ That was a very generous thing.” He also mentioned this later on.

It’s worth noting that in the 2011 film Don 2, Hrithik made a guest appearance, disguised as Shah Rukh Khan’s character. Apart from Don, they have collaborated on other projects such as Luck By Chance and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.

Moving ahead, it’s been announced that Farhan Akhtar will direct Don 3, featuring Ranveer Singh and Kiara Advani as the main characters.

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2024-08-09 08:52