Despite the uncertainty surrounding Keanu Reeves‘ return as the titular assassin in the John Wick saga, the fifth installment has received an exciting update. A Lionsgate executive not only confirmed that the most raved-about action film is in development but also suggested that Reeves’ character might make a comeback.
In an interview with ComicBook, Jenefer Brown, EVP and Head of Global Products and Experiences at Lionsgate, discussed John Wick 5 and the franchise’s upcoming spinoffs. Brown revealed that the sequel is moving in the right direction and hinted at the uncertainty surrounding John Wick’s fate.
“We’ve shared that we’re developing a fifth John Wick film. [John Wick] may be [dead]… We are all on bated breath waiting to find out,” she stated.
Brown also shared her enthusiasm for expanding the John Wick universe, particularly the upcoming spinoff film Ballerina. Set between the events of Chapter 3 and Chapter 4, the film stars Ana de Armas in the lead role, with Reeves making an appearance. “Next up, we have Ballerina, our first spinoff movie, and we can’t wait to share it with the world,” she said. She also hinted at more future projects, including additional spinoffs, a television series, and a video game.
Although Lionsgate officially announced John Wick 5 in 2023 following the critical and commercial success of Chapter 4, Keanu Reeves’ return remains unknown. The assassin’s untimely death in the previous film left fans questioning whether he could truly make a comeback. Reeves has also raised eyebrows, expressing doubt about the sequel happening and admitting he is unsure about reprising the role due to the intense physical demands.
Several spinoff projects are currently in development. One of them is a Caine spinoff, featuring Donnie Yen reprising his role from the fourth film. Additionally, a John Wick anime is in the works.
The next installment in the franchise, Ballerina, follows Ana de Armas’ character, Eve Macarro, also known as Rooney, a ballerina-turned-assassin seeking vengeance for her father’s murder by honing her skills within the assassin traditions of Ruska Roma.
