Whatever Happened to ‘Hancock 2’?
In 2008, the superhero comedy "Hancock" starring Will Smith, Jason Bateman, and Charlize Theron, became a surprise hit at the box office, grossing over $624 million worldwide. The film’s unique blend of action, humor, and social commentary resonated with audiences, and it seemed like a sequel was a foregone conclusion. However, over a decade has passed since the original, and fans are still waiting for "Hancock 2" to materialize.
So, what happened to the sequel? In the years following the film’s release, there were reports of a script being written, with various directors and writers attached to the project. In 2010, it was announced that Peter Berg, who directed the original, would return to helm the sequel, with Will Smith and Charlize Theron set to reprise their roles. However, the project stalled, and Berg eventually moved on to other projects.
In 2012, it was reported that Adam Shankman, known for directing films like "The Wedding Planner" and "Rock of Ages," was in talks to take over the sequel. Shankman even shared his ideas for the film on social media, hinting at a more dramatic and intense tone. However, the project remained in development hell, and Shankman ultimately didn’t end up directing the sequel.
In recent years, there have been sporadic updates on the status of "Hancock 2." In 2019, Will Smith mentioned in an interview that he was still interested in making a sequel, but only if the script was right. Charlize Theron has also expressed her willingness to return to the franchise, stating that she loved playing the role of Ray Embrey’s wife, Mary.
Despite the continued interest from the cast, the sequel remains stuck in development. It’s unclear what’s holding things up, but it’s likely a combination of factors, including script issues, budget concerns, and the ever-changing landscape of the film industry.
The lack of a sequel has been a disappointment for fans of the original, who have been eagerly awaiting a follow-up. However, the film’s themes of redemption and social commentary remain relevant today, and it’s possible that a sequel could be made in the future.
In the meantime, fans can take comfort in the fact that the original "Hancock" remains a beloved and entertaining film. Its unique blend of humor and action continues to charm audiences, and it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Will Smith’s charismatic performance as the troubled superhero.
As for "Hancock 2," only time will tell if the sequel will finally come to fruition. Until then, fans will have to continue speculating about what could have been, and what the future might hold for the character of John Hancock.