Michael B. Jordan Comments On Star Wars: Episode VII And Independence Day 2 Rumors
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While it’s been quiet on the Star Wars: Episode VII front lately, we expect to hear casting news before the New Year. The new film is expected to go into production in spring 2014, so director J.J. Abrams and producer Kathleen Kennedy have some time before the cameras start rolling. Everyone and their uncle has been linked to Episode VII, but lets take a look at one of the more persistent rumors, namely Michael B. Jordan.
In an interview with We Got You Covered, Jordan talked about the many rumors surrounding him in big, tent pole blockbusters, a list that includes The Fantastic Four reboot and the Independence Day sequel, in addition to Episode VII. He didn’t divulge whether or not he landed the role, but he did say that he’s still in the mix for Episode VII. Jordan explained:
With ‘Star Wars’ and all these other franchises, Fantastic Four and stuff like that, it’s good to be in the mix of those conversations. You know, it wasn’t like that before, so it’s kind of cool to be in those conversations right now.
Considering that Saoirse Ronan is, sadly, no longer in contention for Episode VII, it’s refreshing to hear that Jordan still has a good chance. The young actor had one hell of a 2013, turning in a magnificent performance in Fruitvale Station. While Jordan won’t know officially if he’ll be in Star Wars, the 26-year-old talked about how he’s preparing like he expects to get the call.
I’m actually just starting to get back in shape…I get back to LA, see my nutritionist, start training, eating right, getting my body right… so just in case any films, any roles come up in the future that I might need to be in shape for – I’ll be in shape.
It’s unclear who he could play in Star Wars: Episode VII or Independence Day 2, but the rumors are he would play Lando Calrissian’s son in the former, or the adult stepson of Captain William Hiller (Will Smith) in the latter. Jordan is one name on a long, illustrious list of Hollywood actors rumored to be up for roles in Episode VII, a list that includes the likes of Chiwetel Ejiofor, Daniel Day-Lewis, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, David Oyelowo, and Alex Pettyfer, among others.
On the male side of Episode VII’s, there have been two leaked character descriptions. The first is named Thomas, who is described as “a smart, handsome, athletic 19-23 year old, who also needs to be capable and courageous.” The other is a 40-something military-type. There is also a possibility that Jordan could play the younger of these characters, or one we haven’t even heard of yet.
As for Independence Day 2, Roland Emmerich’s alien invasion sequel was delayed for a whole year. It was originally set for release in summer 2015, but has now been bumped to 2016. Will Smith is not expected to return, but Emmerich revealed that there are currently two versions of the script: one that Smith’s character, and one that does not. While Smith’s participation is still up in the air, Bill Pullman and Jeff Goldblum are expected to reprise their roles as former President Thomas J. Whitmore and David Levinson, respectively.
Star Wars: Episode VII hits theaters everywhere on December 18, 2015.
