If reports from The Guardian are to be believed, then we may not have seen Paul Walker's Fast & Furious character for the last time after all. Caleb Walker stood in for the actor after his untimely death from a car crash that originally stopped Furious 7 in production. Alongside brother Cody they ensured that the picture went ahead while featuring more Walker.
Speaking with the press about future plans and developments, Caleb explained, "I had a phone call with Vin (Diesel) for about an hour and we really discussed this a while back. He wanted (our) blessing.” Diesel had asked if and when they thought it “would be acceptable to maybe bring Paul’s character back … to really kind of let his fans know he’s still out there."
Ending of 7 Was Fitting End For Late Actor
The seventh movie of the franchise was delayed for many months in the post production phase since the tragedy. CGI costs of approximately $50m were implemented to bring Cody and Caleb in for their brother Paul on numerous scenes.
As the film closes with Brian O'Connor driving away from the car gang happily ever after, it appeared as though the chapter was closed on a sad yet fitting note. But Cody explained that they are mindful of what has gone and what they will be tasked to do should O'Connor return.
“Universal wants to make sure to be respectful of Paul and his image too, and his family,” said Cody.
Fast 8 Already Bringing Back Big Hitters
Whether Caleb or Cody step in for Paul is one point of contention, but the legacy of Fast & Furious lives on with Fast 8 already taking shape. Big names are signed on the dotted line to keep the franchise alive with a few surprising additions making for an intriguing 8th installment.
Alongside regulars Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson and Jason Statham - Helen Mirren and Charlize Theron are set to join production. While the former might sound like a fish out of water, the latter is no novice to action blockbusters after her heroics on Mad Max: Fury Road, amongst other classics of the genre.
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