Since the release of John Wick: Chapter 4 in March 2023, speculation about a fifth film has intensified. Keanu Reeves has expressed uncertainty about continuing due to physical limitations, despite a desire to return. Producer Basil Iwanyk noted Reeves’ wish for John Wick to be definitively killed off in Chapter 4. Discussions for a sequel have resumed post-writers’ strike, with director Chad Stahelski revealing numerous ideas. Meanwhile, the franchise expands with new projects, including the prequel series The Continental and the spin-off film Ballerina.
Will There Be a John Wick 5?
Since the premiere of John Wick: Chapter 4 in March 2023, fans have been buzzing with anticipation over the possibility of a fifth installment featuring the iconic Keanu Reeves. During a promotional event for Sonic 3, in which Reeves voices the character Shadow, he was asked about the future of the John Wick franchise. He responded, “You can never say never, but right now my knees are telling me: ‘you can’t do another John Wick.’”
Franchise Expansion and Future Projects
Keanu Reeves has previously expressed mixed feelings about continuing his role, admitting that while his heart desires to return, he questions whether his body can handle it. Basil Iwanyk, the producer of the series, shared that Reeves wishes for John Wick to be “definitely” killed off in the fourth chapter, emphasizing the physical and emotional toll filming takes on him.
Despite these challenges, discussions about a fifth film have resumed. As reported in November 2023, the creative team began working again following the conclusion of the writers’ strike, which lasted 146 days and ended in late September 2023. Chad Stahelski, the director, hinted at a wealth of ideas for future installments, stating, “I have notebooks filled with concepts for John Wick 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. We have plenty of ideas, but we need a compelling story.”
The studio remains enthusiastic about expanding the franchise with new narratives and characters. Stahelski noted, “We approached the studio with ideas for the John Wick universe, focusing on characters not previously explored. They were very receptive to the idea.”
The John Wick universe is set to grow with several exciting projects. The prequel series, The Continental, aired on Prime Video in 2023, while the spin-off film Ballerina, starring Ana de Armas, is set for release on June 4, 2025. This film will delve into the story of a ballerina-assassin seeking vengeance for her parents’ murders, taking place between the events of John Wick 3 and 4. Reeves is expected to make an appearance, although the specifics of his role remain under wraps.
Additionally, Keanu Reeves will serve as an executive producer for the upcoming series titled John Wick: Under the High Table, alongside Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee. Robert Levine, known for his work on Black Sails, has been appointed as the showrunner, writer, and producer. This new series will explore the aftermath of Chapter 4, introducing a fresh array of characters while intertwining familiar faces from the franchise.
Fans can look forward to another thrilling chapter in the John Wick saga, with the promise of both continuity and new adventures in a universe that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.