'Fast & Furious 8' Confirmed! Release Date, Cast, Plot & Rumors Here!

Looks like the "Fast & Furious" franchise can't get enough of action star Jason Statham. Or is it the other way around?

In the wake of the success of "Furious 7," it's no surprise that the makers of the film have announced the release date of its sequel, April 14, 2017. Also, it has been announced that Statham will be back in the next installment to reprise his role as the baddie Deckard Shaw.

"We're already talking about doing another one, Part 8. I'm a newcomer, I just got invited to the party in this last one, so it's nice to know I'm going to be doing another," he revealed in an interview with Access Hollywood, as quoted by ComingSoon.net.

However, when pressed to reveal details about the upcoming film, he declined to go any further than confirm his return in the sequel.

"They've always got something good up their sleeve, and I don't want to be the one who spoils the plot lines but there is some great stuff I already know about," he said in closing.

Considering that the late Paul Walker will no longer be seen in the next iteration, it's been speculated that a new character taking on the side of Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his team may emerge. According to Screen Rant, Mr. Nobody (Kurt Russell) may "play a more significant role in the next chapter" and that Shaw will still wreak havoc with his return in the sequel.

It is expected that Diesel, along with Dwayne Johnson, will be back in "Fast & Furious 8," as well as other regulars, like Michelle Rodriguez and Tyrese Gibson.

"However, Jordana Brewster may not be among the returning players, following the 'conclusion' to Mia (Brewster) and Brian's (Walker) storyline in 'Furious 7'; at least, not beyond a cameo appearance," the site added.

Right now, not much is known about the eighth installment's plot. Diesel, however, had revealed that the setting will be in New York and that it will be the "second chapter in the trilogy plotline set in motion by 'Furious 7'." Does this mean that we'll be seeing Statham in "Fast & Furious 9" too?

After 7 films, it appears the franchise keeps going from strength to strength as it manages to reinvent itself and keep things interesting and fresh for its fans.

"After taking in over $1.5 billion worldwide, 'Furious 7' is just a few million shy of besting 'The Avengers' to become the third-highest-grossing movie of all-time," Screen Rant pointed out.

Will the next film reap the same box office success? We'll find out in about 2 years.

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