As the John Wick franchise train continues to move with Lionsgate pleading for a fifth with Keanu Reeves, fans can look forward to a couple of extensions to the Wick world happening sooner than later. One such project is the prequel centering around The Continental which will showcase a younger version of the Ian McShane character, Winston. There is also the spin-off, Ballerina, which will star Ana De Armas and is said to be taking place between John Wicks Chapter 3 – Parabellum and Chapter 4.
It has been reported that Wick stars Keanu Reeves, Lance Reddick, and Ian McShane, have reprised their roles in cameos on the upcoming film. The spin-off is directed by Len Wiseman of Underworld, Live Free or Die Hard, and the Total Recall remake. Producer of the franchise, Erica Lee, talks to Collider about the John Wick cast appearances in Ballerina.
Lee explains, “Ian has a little bit more to do, and John Wick is an extended cameo. He shot for about a week. Lance shot for a day. Those were last minute adds in a way, too.”
Keanu has been complimentary of De Armas’ dedication to the training and filming of her action scenes. And Armas was equally excited to work with Reeves, “We’ve been in Prague filming for four months. We still have one more month to go. And I’m in pain. You know, my body, my back, everything hurts. I’m complaining, I’m sore, I’m bruised. Bond was fifteen minutes. This is a whole movie, another level. But the other day, Keanu and I were rehearsing our very difficult stunt scene, and this man is just rolling and throwing me and doing crazy stunts. And I’m like — I can’t complain anymore. Because he is doing it! He truly is the best.”