Could ‘Fast and Furious 7′ Completely Start Over in the Wake of Paul Walker’s Death?
As we reported this past weekend, 'Fast and Furious' star Paul Walker died tragically at the age of 40 after a terrible car crash. While his family and friends, including his 'F&F' brethren, continue to mourn his passing, the once fast-tracked 'Fast and Furious 7' had been delayed. Though Universal seemed keen on continuing on with production, new reports claim the studio might scrap the project all together and start anew.
After the box-office dollars amassed from 'Fast and Furious 6,' Universal raced to sign off on 'Fast and Furious 7,' which is currently more than half-way done with shooting. According to The Wrap, however, insiders say that Walker hadn't completed filming of his crucial scenes, which is forcing the studio to consider starting over from scratch.
Though the seventh installment has a budget exceeding $200 million, Universal is insured, making this potentially difficult decision a little bit easier. Producers and director James Wan are said to meet this week to discuss possible alternatives, and one viable option, reportedly, is to write out Walker's Brian O'Conner character. However, no official move has been decided upon, and there are still other possibilities to consider, including inserting Walker's face onto another body through special effects, though it seems unlikely.
Paul Walker passed away this past Saturday when a car in which he was a passenger crashed in Santa Carla, California. An impromptu memorial was had at the site, which saw family and friends come out in mourning. Walker left behind a 15-year-old daughter, Meadow.
As of now, 'Fast and Furious 7,' originally slated for release on July 11, 2014, as been placed on an indefinite hold, according to THR. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster and the rest of the 'Fast' crew were ready to return with new cast members like Kurt Russell, Djimon Hounsou and Ronda Rousey.