Justin Lin steps down as ‘Fast and Furious’ director just days into filming
"I have made the difficult decision to step back as director of Fast X"
Justin Lin has stepped down as director of Fast X, the upcoming 10th instalment of the long-running Fast & Furious franchise.
It comes just days after filming on the project began on April 20.
In a statement on social media, Lin wrote: “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.”
He continued: “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.”
You can see the full statement here:
His departure from the project is said to be due to creative differences (as reported in Deadline) although no other reasons have yet been given officially. Rolling Stone UK has reached out to Universal for comment.
Lin first joined the series with 2005’s Tokyo Drift, before going on to direct Fast & Furious, Fast Five, Fast & Furious 6 and last year’s F9.
It was planed that he would direct both the 10th (Fast X) and 11th films in the series.
A new director for the project is yet to be named.
Fast X will be released May 19, 2023 and will feature a host of stars including Jason Momoa, Brie Larson, Charlize Theron and Cardi B.
Longtime cast members Vin Diesel, Ludacris, Michelle Rodriguez, Nathalie Emmanuel, and Jason Statham will all return.