It’s no surprise that Netflix is working on a sequel to “The Old Guard.” Right after the first film debuted last year, the streaming platform was quick to tout massive viewership numbers and say it is one of the most-watched pieces of original content the streamer has released. So, while we are definitely getting “The Old Guard 2,” it doesn’t appear that the original film’s director, Gina Prince-Bythewood, is going to return to the new franchise.
READ MORE: Victoria Mahoney To Direct Paramount’s New Action Film, ‘Kill Them All’
According to Deadline, Netflix has brought on Victoria Mahoney to direct “The Old Guard” sequel for the studio. As mentioned, she’s replacing Prince-Bythewood, who is reportedly too busy to return considering her success with the first film opened her up to a ton of opportunities. Mahoney is probably best known for her work as second-unit director on “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” making her the first Black woman to work as a director in that franchise.
Charlize Theron, KiKi Layne, Matthias Schoenaerts, Marwan Kenzari, Luca Marinelli, Veronica Ngo, and Chiwetel Ejiofor are all slated to return to the cast for the sequel. “The Old Guard” is based on a comic book series by Greg Rucka and Leandro Fernández and tells the story of a group of immortal mercenaries that are trying to keep their identities hidden from the outside world.
“I love ‘The Old Guard’ and the story and characters I was honored to put into the world. It was exciting to disrupt the genre,” said Prince-Bythewood. “I have decided not to direct the sequel, but will stay on as a producer. I leave our franchise in good hands as my girl Vic Mahoney takes on this next chapter.”
“Genuinely blown backwards by the collective levels of talent, skill, and savvy that went into carving ‘The Old Guard,’” Mahoney added. “I must’ve watched it over a hundred times, and as such, cannot communicate the true measure of my excitement–being invited on ‘The Old Guard’ journey alongside ferocious badasses. Ever eager to continue pushing the genre for action-loving audiences. Warmly tipping my hat to the world Gina, Charlize, Rucka, Fernández, Skydance, Netflix, Marc Evans Productions, Denver & Delilah Films and the entire Team daringly put forward.”
It’s unclear when production on “The Old Guard 2” is going to begin. In 2020, Mahoney already signed on to direct a new TV series produced by Ava DuVernay, as well as the action film, “Kill Them All.” Of course, “The Old Guard 2” could take top priority. We shall see.