Breaking: Director's Uncertainty Surrounding John Wick 5 Sparks Rumors About Franchise's Future - What's at Stake for Lionsgate?

John Wick franchise director Chad Stahelski expressed uncertainty regarding the future of John Wick 5 and the direction of the franchise. The release of John Wick: Chapter 4 seemingly served as the conclusion to the action film series, as John Wick (Keanu Reeves) met his demise after fulfilling his obligations to the High Table. However, despite the apparent finality, Lionsgate announced the development of John Wick 5 in May, indicating that the franchise will persist despite John's death.

In an interview with Empire, Stahelski admitted his indecision about the narrative path for John Wick 5, suggesting that it may not come to fruition. The director mentioned his conflicting desire to either terminate the series with John Wick: Chapter 4 or continue with a fifth installment. Here's what Stahelski had to say:

How Could John Wick 5 Happen?

Although John Wick: Chapter 4 concludes with John meeting his demise, the final installment of the series lays the foundation for new narratives within the John Wick universe. In the post-credits scene of John Wick: Chapter 4, Caine (portrayed by Donnie Yen) encounters Akira (played by Rina Sawayama), who seeks retribution against the sightless assassin for murdering her father. With John now deceased, it is possible that John Wick 5 may not revolve around the eponymous hitman, but rather delve into Caine's storyline.

Reeves' involvement in a sequel is crucial, given the popularity of his character, John. Should a fifth installment of John Wick materialize, it is probable that the narrative will unveil John's feigned demise to safeguard himself from reprisals by the High Table. However, the conclusion of John Wick: Chapter 4 effectively completes John's character arc, and resurrecting him could potentially diminish the impact.

Notwithstanding, Lionsgate aims to extend the John Wick cinematic universe through The Continental miniseries, set to debut on Peacock in September, and the Ballerina film, slated for release on June 7, 2024. While Stahelski currently lacks concepts for John Wick 5, its production is still probable, given the triumph of John Wick: Chapter 4. Only time will reveal the trajectory of John Wick 5 and whether it will honor the previous movie's denouement.

Source: Empire