Filmmaker Justin Lin has abruptly announced that he will no longer direct “Fast X,” the tentth installment in the “Fast and the Furious” franchise at Universal Pictures.
Lin shared the news on Instagram, posting a statement that says: “With the support of Universal, I have made the difficult decision to step back as director of Fast X, while remaining with the project as a producer.” Lin is said to be amicably stepping away from the franchise over that oldest of reasons – creative differences.
Production on the new installment kicked off last week and sources say that production on the main unit has briefly paused as Universal locks in a replacement director, while the second unit continues filming.
Lin has directed five of the previous nine installments, including the celebrated “Fast Five” and last year’s ninth entry. He adds in the statement: “I will forever be grateful to the amazing cast, crew and studio for their support, and for welcoming me into the FAST family.”
Vin Diesel, Jordana Brewster, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris ‘Ludacris; Bridges, Nathalie Emmanuel, Sung Kang and Charlize Theron are returning for the new films whilst new cast members include Michael Rooker, Jason Momoa, Daniela Melchior and Brie Larson.
“Fast X” is set to open in theaters on May 19th 2023 and there are no plans to shift that at this time despite the helmer change.
