John Wick 4 appeared to bring the series to a definitive conclusion, but franchise co-creator Chad Stahelski and Lionsgate Motion Picture Group chair Joe Drake have recently revealed that there are more projects in the works. Stahelski shared in an interview with The Playlist's The Discourse podcast that a new TV series will focus on the mysterious High Table, which has not been fully explored in the franchise. Additionally, Stahelski is overseeing a separate TV series spinoff, separate from the recent prequel show, The Continental.
"That is completely distinct," stated Stahelski. "Lionsgate has tasked us with the development of the John Wick TV show, which allows us to delve into The High Table to a certain extent... We are eagerly anticipating this opportunity, as we are also involved in the creation of a Japanese anime."
Stahelski added, "My love for Japanese anime is immense. By harnessing the storytelling potential of anime, which surpasses our own abilities, and by expanding our world through the TV show, we will satisfy our creative urges and thoroughly enjoy the process."
Stahelski explains that the purpose of the anime, which appears to be a TV series, is to combine world-building and action, which traditionally have been separated in TV shows. He expresses his desire for something to happen in TV shows after a few episodes, and he finds the prospect of bringing the intensity of features to TV exciting. In an earlier interview with Inverse, Stahelski revealed that he has a multitude of ideas for future John Wick sequels, in addition to the FX prequel series The Continental.
During Lionsgate's quarterly earnings call on Thursday, Drake expressed excitement about the ongoing expansion of the franchise. He mentioned the development of multiple spinoffs and also confirmed the production of Wick Five. Drake revealed that despite the initial interruption caused by the writer's strike, work on Wick Five resumed promptly as soon as the strike concluded. Although Drake's main focus lies in feature films, it is uncertain whether the reference to "multiple spinoffs" pertains solely to additional movies.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled about the upcoming John Wick anime spinoff. The John Wick franchise has been one of my favorites for years, and I can't wait to see what a new anime series will bring to the table.
I'm particularly interested in seeing how the anime will explore the mysterious High Table, which has been a major part of the franchise's lore but has never been fully explored. I'm also excited to see how the anime will incorporate Japanese anime's unique storytelling and animation style. I think this could be a great opportunity to bring in new fans to the franchise and expand the John Wick universe in exciting new ways.