In a video posted Nov. 18 on Deadline Hollywood’s social media account on X, formerly known as Twitter, producer Irwin Winkler confirmed the eagerly awaited Creed IV is officially in the pipeline, with an exciting twist — Michael B. Jordan will be stepping into the director’s chair, according to People.
The announcement unfolded during an interview, with Winkler divulging the news in videos posted on X. At 92, Winkler shared that filming is anticipated to commence in approximately a year. When probed about Jordan’s role in the Rocky franchise, Winkler humorously let the secret slip, stating, “I’m not supposed to say, but he will be,” eliciting laughter from the audience.
According to the outlet, Winkler’s confirmation of the movie came on the heels of discussions on the challenges posed by the SAG-AFTRA strike, which reportedly caused a delay in the pre-production process. Undeterred, Winkler expressed enthusiasm for continuing the franchise, assuring fans that they have a compelling story and plot in store for the sports drama.
In the third installment, Creed III
, original cast members, including Jordan, Phylicia Rashad, Tessa Thompson, and Wood Harris, made a triumphant return. Notably, it marked the first film in the franchise without Sylvester Stallone reprising his iconic role as Rocky Balboa.Stallone, 77, shared his regret about Creed III’s creative direction, stating in a 2022 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, “It was taken in a direction that is quite different than I would’ve taken it.” He expressed a preference for a more sentimental approach, asserting, “I like my heroes getting beat up, but I just don’t want them going into that dark space.”
Meanwhile, Jordan, 36, who portrays Adonis Creed, highlighted his comfort in transitioning to the directorial role. In a virtual Q&A in October 2022, he remarked, “I finally got to this place in my career where I really wanted to tell a story, you know, and not just be in front of the camera, not just execute somebody else’s vision,” said Jordan about the unique opportunity to delve into Adonis Creed’s character after portraying him twice before.
As anticipation builds for Creed IV, fans can look forward to Michael B. Jordan’s sophomore run in the dual role as director and actor, promising a fresh perspective on the beloved sports-drama franchise.
RELATED CONTENT: ‘Black Panther’ and ‘Creed III’ Stuntman Taraja Ramsess Dies In Car Accident