It was reported earlier this month that John Boyega had dropped out of Netflix's Rebel Ridge movie mid-way through the shoot. According to Netflix, Boyega needed to leave due to "family reasons" which is entirely understandable, but a new report from THR claims that the actor simply…walked away.
Sources told THR that John Boyega walked away from the production without telling anyone, and the only reason the filmmakers knew this was because when they looked for him at his hotel, they discovered that he had checked out. The sources don't give an explanation for Boyega's exit, only to say that the actor had "myriad issues ranging from the script to his accommodations." Netflix executives, including Scott Stuber and Ted Sarandos, unsuccessfully tried to get Boyega to return but the production was later shut down and dozens of crew-members were let go. Jeremy Saulnier, best known for Blue Ruin, Green Room, and Hold the Dark, is directing Rebel Ridge based on his own script, and while plot details are being kept under wraps, it's said that the film will be a "high-velocity thriller that explores systemic American injustices through bone-breaking action sequences, suspense and dark humor." Saulnier declined to comment.
John Boyega quickly denied the report through his agent, Femi Oguns. "I can categorically say that these rumours are completely untrue," Oguns said. "People will form their opinions often rooted from boredom. As stated John unfortunately left due to family reasons which in truth is none of anyone’s business except his own. John and Netflix have a wonderful relation which will continue to grow for years to come whether that be through his acting or through [Boyega’s production company] UpperRoom." When it was first announced that Boyega had exited Rebel Ridge, Netflix was hoping to quickly find a new lead, but it seems they were unable to do so. Production is expected to resume early next year.