Filming starts next Spring.
With Ryan Coogler being tied up in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Black Panther, plenty of people were wondering who would be filling the director’s chair on Creed 2.
In fact, Sylvester Stallone was heavily linked with the position but Variety has reported that Steven Caple Jr. will direct Michael B. Jordan and ‘The Italian Stallion’ in Creed 2.
“It’s an honor to be a part of such an iconic franchise and to work with such great collaborators. Mike, Sly, and Tessa are extraordinarily talented and bring something special to today’s culture. I look forward to joining the family and continuing the precedent set by this franchise’s alumni of incredible filmmakers,” Caple said.
The film is Caple’s first feature at a major studio and he will direct from an original screenplay that’s written by Stallone and Cheo Hodari Coker (showrunner of “Luke Cage”)
Taking to Twitter, Michael B. Jordan confirmed the news.
Excited for Coogler to hand over the reins to Steven Caple, Jr. – our director for Creed 2! Can’t wait to bring you guys the next chapter of our story … coming at you November 2018. 👊🏾👊🏾 #Creed2
— Michael B. Jordan (@michaelb4jordan) December 11, 2017
The sequel follows Adonis Creed’s (Jordan) life inside and outside of the ring as he deals with new-found fame, issues with his family, and his continuing quest to become a champion.
While plot details about the sequel are still vague, Stallone has previously hinted that the story will revolve around the son of Ivan Drago, Of course, Rocky fans will know that Drago Sr. infamously killed Creed’s father Apollo in Rocky IV.
In recent months, various actors and fighters have put their name forward for the role but Stallone has confirmed that Drago Jr. will be played by an ‘unknown.’
Dolph Lundgren has also been training ahead of the film as he looks set to reprise his famous role.
“The character of Adonis Creed reflects this generation and its challenges. I believe it’s important for the director to also be a part of this generation like I was in mine, to make the story as relatable as possible. We are extremely lucky to have the talented young filmmaker Steven Caple Jr. step up and accept the role of director. I am confident that he and Michael B. Jordan will hit it out of the park!,” Stallone said.
The movie is set to be released on Nov. 21, 2018, and filming starts in March.
