Universal Pictures has announced that Fast 9, the Fast and Furious sequel originally set for a release this May, will now be released in April 2021, in response to actions taken around the world concerning the novel coronavirus COVID-19.
Fast 9, the 10th film in the Fast and Furious franchise, was originally meant for a theatrical release on May 22, 2020. However, a statement from Universal Pictures sent to IGN confirmed that “We are moving the global release date to April 2021, with North America opening on April 2.” Universal explained the reasoning behind the delay, saying “It’s become clear that it won’t be possible for all of our fans around the world to see the film this May.”
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The full statement reads:
To our family of Fast fans everywhere,
We feel all the love and the anticipation you have for the next chapter in our saga.
That’s why it’s especially tough to let you know that we have to move the release date of the film. It’s become clear that it won’t be possible for all of our fans around the world to see the film this May.
We are moving the global release date to April 2021, with North America opening on April 2. While we know there is disappointment in having to wait a little while longer, this move is made with the safety of everyone as our foremost consideration.
Moving will allow our global family to experience our new chapter together. We’ll see you next spring.
Much love,
Your Fast Family
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Fans of the Fast franchise were particularly excited for Fast 9’s release following the reveal of a major character’s return in the debut trailer. Fast 9’s director described why that character’s return had to happen, while star Vin Diesel has continued to look toward the future of the franchise, having recently discussed whether Fast 10 could be split into two films.
Just days ago reports suggested that Universal’s Fast 9 and Disney’s Black Widow wouldn’t see delays due to COVID-19, and while Black Widow’s release remains unchanged, Fast 9 is not the only film to see delays. In terms of other delays, A Quiet Place II was delayed a week before its release while No Time to Die was delayed to November 2020. IGN recently spoke with several film industry experts about the potential impact on the film industry of COVID-19.
The NBA has also indefinitely suspended its season due to COVID-19, while the gaming industry has seen the cancellation of E3 2020 and a postponement of the Game Developers Conference.
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Jonathon Dornbush is IGN’s Senior News Editor, host of Podcast Beyond! and an avid member of the Fast Family. Talk to him about the series on Twitter @jmdornbush.
Source: IGN.com Fast 9 Release Date Delayed to April 2021