If there’s one franchise that seems to be universally beloved amongst action fans right now, it’s Chad Stahelski’s “John Wick.” Partially, people just love Keanu Reeves, who is carrying the load in the franchise, but also it’s because the action is so amazing and interesting, you could watch John Wick murder guys for two hours with no problems. But now, the “John Wick” franchise is spinning off and without Reeves, there’s a new star in the cast—Mel Gibson.
According to THR, the first “John Wick” spinoff, “The Continental,” is moving ahead with development over at Starz and there’s already some casting news. Apparently, Mel Gibson has been brought on to play a role in the three-part event series. Gibson is set to play a character named Cormac, but his exact significance to the story is unknown at this time.
Though a bit of a polarizing figure, due to his many off-screen issues, Gibson has been continuing to find work lately. His most recent role has been in the Frank Grillo-led action film, “Boss Level.” He also has a number of other film projects that are in various stages of production.
“The Continental” is a prequel series that takes place well before the events of “John Wick.” The series is expected to follow a young Winston Scott, originally played by Ian McShane in the film series, as he is forced to get back into a world that he left behind as he fights to take over the titular hotel.
The new series is led by writers/showrunners Greg Coolidge and Kirk Ward. “The Continental” will be directed by Albert Hughes and produced by Derek Kolstad and Chad Stahelski, the writer and director of the ‘Wick’ series, respectively.
“The Continental” has been in development for years now and looks to finally be close to production. A release date has yet to be confirmed.