The Russo Brothers’ The Gray Man is expanding with its own universe on Netflix which will include a sequel and a spinoff.
The details given by Netflix include that following the immensely successful release of The Gray Man this past weekend, where it debuted as the #1 movie in 92 countries, Netflix is cementing plans for the IP to become a major spy franchise.
A sequel to The Gray Man, which is already a fan favorite with a 90% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, is now in development with star Ryan Gosling and directors Joe and Anthony Russo set to return. The Russos and AGBO’s Mike Larocca will produce along with Joe Roth and Jeffrey Kirschenbaum for Roth Kirschenbaum Films.
The Gray Man co-writer Stephen McFeely (The Electric State, Avengers: Endgame, Captain America: Civil War) is also returning to write the sequel.
A spin-off film, written by acclaimed Deadpool and Zombieland screenwriters Paul Wernick and Rhett Reese is set to explore a different element of The Gray Man universe. The logline is being kept under wraps.
Joe and Anthony Russo said in a statement: “The audience reaction to The Gray Man has been nothing short of phenomenal. We are so appreciative of the enthusiasm that fans across the world have had for this film. With so many amazing characters in the movie, we had always intended for the Gray Man to be part of an expanded universe, and we are thrilled that Netflix is announcing a sequel with Ryan, as well as a second script that we’re excited to talk about soon.”
Scott Stuber, Head of Global Film for Netflix, said: “With The Gray Man, the Russos delivered an edge-of-your-seat spectacle that audiences around the world are loving. We’re excited to continue to partner with them and the team at AGBO as they build out The Gray Man universe.”
The Gray Man is based on the best-selling book series by Mark Greaney and is the third film from the Russo Brothers’ AGBO production company to premiere on Netflix, and the company’s second consecutive debut at #1 worldwide. AGBO’s, 2020’s Extraction starring Chris Hemsworth (the 5th most popular film on Netflix) has a sequel to be released on Netflix in 2023.