Justin Lin steps down as director of Fast X

Production on Fast X recently got underway, but it would appear that they’ll already be pausing to look for a new director. That’s right, Justin Lin announced today that he has decided to step away from Fast X reportedly due to creative differences.

“With the support of Universal, I have made the difficult decision to step back as director of FAST X, while remaining with the project as a producer,” Justin Lin said in a statement. “Over 10 years and five films, we have been able to shoot the best actors, the best stunts, and the best damn car chases. On a personal note, as the child of Asian immigrants, I am proud of helping to build the most diverse franchise in movie history. I will forever be grateful to the amazing cast, crew and studio for their support, and for welcoming me into the FAST family.” The production will continue shooting second-unit footage but it’s expected that shooting will have to pause while the studio looks for someone to replace Justin Lin on Fast X. We should expect to hear an announcement shortly.

As Justin Lin mentioned in his statement, he will remain on board as a producer, and Deadline reported that the parting was amicable between both parties. Justin Lin has easily been one of the essential elements of the Fast & Furious franchise. Since joining the franchise with The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, he directed Fast & Furious, Fast Five, Fast & Furious 6, and F9. Lin helped to turn the franchise into the billion-dollar behemoth it has become, and it was only fitting when it was announced that he would help bring the Fast Saga to a conclusion. Fast X will hit theaters on May 19, 2023, and even with Justin Lin stepping down, that date is expected to remain firm.

Now that Justin Lin is out, who would you like to see take the helm of Fast X?