Keanu Reeves, the adored Hollywood star, has revealed he might not return as the iconic John Wick.
This is despite confirmation that a fifth instalment of the action-packed franchise is in development.
KEANU REEVES AND JOHN WICK
Reeves admitted he might not physically manage another gruelling round as the titular assassin, according to The New Daily.
Speaking during a promotional appearance for Sonic the Hedgehog 3, the 60-year-old actor said, “You can never say never. But my knees right now are saying, ‘You can’t do another John Wick.’
My heart does, but I don’t know if my knees can do it.”
Reeves’ remarks have left fans speculating about his potential exit from the role he’s embodied for over a decade.
THE ‘JOHN WICK’ MOVIE FRANCHISE
The John Wick series has been a cinematic triumph since its 2014 debut. The original film introduced audiences to a retired hitman dragged back into a violent underworld, according to IMDB.
Its visceral fight sequences and unique style struck a chord worldwide. The first movie grossed R1.65 billion against a modest budget of R580 million.
Its sequel, John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017), doubled down on the action. It earned an impressive R3.3 billion globally on a R770 million budget.
By the time John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum hit theatres in 2019, the franchise had become a juggernaut.
A NEW CHAPTER
The third instalment shattered expectations, raking in R6.3 billion from a production cost of R1.4 billion.
This success peaked with John Wick: Chapter 4 in 2023, which grossed an astounding R8.4 billion. The ambiguous ending of Chapter 4 left fans debating the fate of the character.
Director Chad Stahelski confirmed that the fifth film would not follow directly from Chapter 4.
Instead, it will launch a new storyline, potentially leaving room for Reeves to step back from the intense physical demands, according to Daily Mail.
Stahelski also revealed an intriguing backstory about the franchise: actress Eva Longoria had been an angel investor in the original film.
JOHN WICK AND EVA LONGORIA
Longoria, best known for Desperate Housewives, put R116 million into the 2014 project and continues to profit from her wise decision.
She recently joked that her only regret was not investing in the entire series, which has grossed more than R19.2 billion globally.
Fans may find Reeves’ decision relatable, given how ageing often demands rethinking life’s pace.
His dedication to the role over the years has set a high standard for action heroes. The role blends heartfelt performances with jaw-dropping stunts.
KEANU REEVES AND THE PHYSICAL TOLL OF ACTION SCENES
As fans debate whether Reeves will return, some are reflecting on the physical toll of such roles.
The John Wick films have earned a loyal following in South Africa, with their unique mix of slick storytelling and relentless action.
While fans may feel disappointed, Reeves’ health comes first.
LEGACY
The actor’s candidness highlights the challenges of staying in peak form for action roles, especially as the years pass.
Keanu Reeves might leave his guns and tailored suits behind, but his legacy as John Wick is set in stone.
His iconic portrayal will remain a touchstone for action cinema. As he himself said, “My heart does [want to], but…” Sometimes, even a legend has to listen to his knees.
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