Overview
- Citing Thursday’s earnings call, Lionsgate motion picture chief Adam Fogelson said the studio is targeting a production start in late 2026 or early 2027 with a release window from late 2027 to the first half of 2028.
- Fogelson told analysts the studio plans to incorporate several previously shot sequences—particularly large musical numbers—so the follow-up can move faster and be more cost‑efficient.
- A legal discovery during the original film’s postproduction revealed a prior settlement clause that barred depiction of one accuser, forcing last‑minute cuts and costly reshoots and creating constraints that will shape what the sequel may portray.
- Lionsgate has not announced a director, full cast, budget or a firm release date, and any casting news is unconfirmed though industry outlets expect Jaafar Jackson to be likely to return and Antoine Fuqua has signaled interest in directing again.
- The push for a sequel follows Michael’s surprise run past $1 billion worldwide, giving Lionsgate commercial incentive to extend the story while raising clear legal and reputational hurdles for the filmmakers and performers involved.