"Big B and SRK, I hope I can make you proud."
Ranveer Singh has broken his silence on being cast as the titular character in Don 3.
Director Farhan Akhtar announced that Ranveer will take over the iconic character from Shah Rukh Khan in the third instalment.
A title announcement video was released, unveiling Ranveer’s look as Don while also teasing what the actor will bring to the role.
However, social media users were unhappy with the announcement, with some confused as to why the film is called Don 3 when it has been billed as a “new era begins” while others questioned the casting choice.
One person said: “No way can it match the era and legacy which is set up by Shah Rukh Khan the only Don!
“Even the dialogues are not coming good as our mind intercepting with the original Don.”
Another commented: “I have never doubted your talent nor do I dislike Ranveer but casting him in such a character is crushing the legacy of Don.
“It would have been a lot better if you would have played the character. The cigarette here also doesn’t suit him, how will the entire plot go?!”
Ranveer has now opened up on bagging the iconic role.
He shared a few childhood pictures of himself posing with a toy gun and sunglasses.
In a lengthy statement, Ranveer said he has been “dreaming” of playing Don.
He said: “Gosh! I’ve been dreaming about doing this for a very, very long time!
“As a child, I fell in love with the movies, and like the rest of us, watching and worshipping Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan – the two GOATs of Hindi Cinema.
“I dreamed of growing up to be like them.
“They are the very reason I wanted to become an actor and a ‘Hindi film hero’.”
“Their impact and influence on my life cannot be overstated. They’ve shaped the person and actor that I am. Taking their legacy forward is a manifestation of my childhood dream.
“I understand what a great responsibility it is to be a part of the ‘Don’ dynasty.
“I hope the audience gives me a chance and showers me with love, the way they have for numerous characters over the past so many years.”
He thanked filmmakers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani for casting him in the role while also hoping he could do justice to the role.
Ranveer Singh continued: “Thank you Farhan and Ritesh for entrusting me with this honourable mantle and believing in me.
“I hope I can deliver on your faith and conviction.
“My two supernovas, the Big B and SRK, I hope I can make you proud.
“And my beloved audience, as always, I promise you…that I will do my very best to entertain you… in and as…’Don’. Thank you for your love.”