'John Wick 5' confirmed, but Keanu Reeves's return remains uncertain
What's the story
Lionsgate has officially confirmed that John Wick 5 is in the works, though Keanu Reeves's return as the titular character remains uncertain.
Jenefer Brown, EVP and Head of Global Products & Experiences at Lionsgate announced the same during an interview with ComicBook.
She said, "This world continues to grow and expand in incredible ways. Up next, of course, we have Ballerina, which is our first spin-off movie, and [we] can't wait for that to release to the world."
Franchise success
'John Wick' franchise has grossed over $1B worldwide
Brown added, "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."
Since its start in 2014, the John Wick franchise has become a global phenomenon. It has given birth to three sequels and an upcoming spinoff film titled Ballerina, starring Ana de Armas.
The franchise has grossed over $1B worldwide.
Brown also hinted at more spinoffs, a TV series, and a video game.
Reeves's opinion
Reeves's recent statement about the franchise
In a recent interview with Extra, Reeves was asked about his return to the franchise.
He said, "Oh my gosh, well there's a version of it called Ballerina, which is in the John Wick world, and John Wick makes a brief appearance. So, other than that, I have no idea."
"You know, the character's dead. He died in John Wick: Chapter 4. I know, I know, it's the Hollywood story. Right now, there isn't [a plan to return]."
Spinoff details
Reeves will return in 'Ballerina'
Ballerina, the John Wick spinoff film, takes place in the timeline between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum and Chapter 4.
It revolves around a ballerina assassin trained in the deadly traditions of the Ruska Roma.
The film stars Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne, Lance Reddick, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Norman Reedus, and Ian McShane.