'The Continental' Finally in the Works!? 'John Wick' Prequel Series Shifts Networks and Here's Why
In the latest update on the upcoming prequel series to the "John Wick' film franchise, "The Continental" has reportedly shifted streaming networks.
"John Wick" is a neo-noir action-thriller starring Keanu reeves, and known as one of the best action film franchise. Now its prequel series, The Continental, was confirmed back in 2018 by Starz, but no other updates to production have been heard, that is until now.
Lionsgate tells Deadline that "The Continental", which was originally developed for Starz, has now shifted to the NBCU streaming service, Peacock. According to Peacock president Kelly Campbell, the John Wick films are among the most watched titles on the streaming service, and they are "thrilled and honored" to partner with Lionsgate in extending the franchise.
"We understand the value of a global franchise and Val Boreland and team knew that by bringing this special event series to Peacock and putting the full power of NBCUniversal behind it, the premiere of The Continental will be the streaming event of the year." Kelly Campbell announced.
Deadline reports that the three-episode series is "a natural fit" for Peacock, which recently acquired the rights to stream all three "John Wick" films. Starz recently unveiled its new direction for its brand over the last few years to focus more on "female-centric" series like "Outlander" and "Power" franchise.
The deal was sealed by NBC Universal EVP/Head of Content Acquisitions Val Boreland and Lionsgate President of Worldwide Television and Digital Distribution Jim Packer.
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Sadly, No Keanu Reeves on This One
Unlike the films, "The Continental" won't center around assassin John Wick, but will instead follow the younger version of Winston Scott, who will be played by Colin Woodell. , and explore the origin of the Continental Hotel that serves as a sanctuary for criminals in the films.
The series will be told from the perspective of the titular hotel's manager and set in New york city in the year 1975. The cast includes Ayomide Adegun as a young Charon , Peter Greene as body disposal expert Uncle Charlie, Katie McGrath as The Adjudicator, and Mel Gibson as Cormac.
Albert Hughes is signed to direct the 1st and 3rd episode, while Charlotte Brandstrom will direct the 2nd episode.The three-part series will come out around the same time as the premiere of "John Wick 4", which will hit theaters on March 24, 2023.
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