Vin Diesel to Direct 'Fast & Furious 8'? [Release Date, Cast, Plot & Rumors]

Vin Diesel throws in a wild idea as to who should direct "Fast & Furious 8."

Here is the situation: Justin Lin is still busy with "Star Trek 3" and Diesel had already announced April 14, 2017 as the release date of the next film of the franchise. The announcement was made during Universal's CinemaCon in April as reported by Variety at the time.

Pressed with time with still no director at the helm of the project, Diesel hinted that he might want to take on the job himself. In a Facebook Post on Oct. 1, Diesel shared a word of advice from his mom: "Either you direct 8 yourself... or don't do it." While the actor immediately shot down the idea of him directing "Furious 8" by saying "I wrote if off as just a mother's love and belief in me," he also immediately followed this with this line "though she has seen firsthand what I've done to make these movies defy expectations and become increasing successful."

Aside from himself, he wanted for Rob Cohen to direct "Furious 8." He said the late Paul Walker desired this. He also believes that Cohen will be the perfect person for the job given that he and David Ayer were the ones who created the character of Brian O'Connor.

However, according to sources who have spoken with Deadline on condition of anonymity, Universal will not allow Diesel to have his way on this matter. He has been very controlling in the whole process but Universal is putting its feet down, the sources revealed. The studio is sticking with either Lin or James Wan. If conflict of schedule could never be worked out, the studio is considering either Ericson Core, a cinematographer for "The Fast and The Furious;" or Louis Leterrier of "Now You See Me," "Clash Of The Titans" and "The Incredible Hulk."

In ending his post, Diesel stressed that he wants "Furious 8" to honor what has already been created. "I will leave this matter in the studio's hands for a moment..." Diesel wrote in conclusion.

The script for "Furious 8" is due in two weeks, Diesel also mentioned in his post. According to rumors, the film will be set for the first time in New York. Walker's brother, Cody Walker, will have a real character this time. IMDb noted rumors claiming that he will play as Jack O'Connor, brother of Brian O'Connor, of whom his son was named after. "Furious 8" will also have Dwayne Johnson and Eva Mendez back onboard. Jason Statham had also said that he was invited back to star in the film.