Several weeks ago production on the next Fast & Furious film began with returning director Justin Lin. The director even went on social media with star Vin Diesel (awkwardly) explaining that Fast X would be one of the best films in the franchise. However, days after the post the director announced he would be stepping away from the franchise that he had helped shape from a street racing series into a global heist franchise.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the director couldn’t stand the constant changes being made by star & producer Vin Diesel. Citing his own “mental health” the director announced his departure from the studio but will stay on as a producer. Many of these complaints have been alluded to by former star Dwayne Johnson on why he also would not return.
Today, director Louis Leterrier has been tapped to board the franchise. Leterrier is best known for directing such action films as The Incredible Hulk, Clash of the Titans and Now You See Me. However, he has also been wanted by Universal as a potential director of the Fast & Furious franchise due to his time on The Transporter films in the early 2000’s. That was the other high-octane-filled action film starring Jason Statham. His deal is expected to be completed later this week as production on Fast X has stalled. It’s unknown if he will also return for the final film in the franchise Fast & Furious 11.
Fast X hits theaters May 19, 2023
