After a lengthy wait of over 15 years, Warner Bros. is finally taking significant steps towards the development of I Am Legend 2. Although information on the much-anticipated sci-fi sequel remains limited, it is clear that the project is gaining momentum. The original film, which starred Will Smith and was directed by Francis Lawrence, was both a critical and commercial triumph. It adapts Richard Matheson’s renowned novel, making it a standout example of the high-budget CGI era in 2000s cinema. This initial film continues to be one of the most notable entries in Will Smith’s diverse body of work.
Since the original’s release, a sequel has been widely discussed, but it presents a unique narrative hurdle. Will Smith’s character, Robert Neville, met his demise in a controversial ending, complicating any potential continuation of his story. Initially, there were suggestions for a prequel; however, plans have shifted, and a sequel has now been greenlit with Michael B. Jordan joining the ensemble. Remarkably, Will Smith is set to reprise his role, a rarity for the actor who usually avoids sequels. While I Am Legend 2 is still some time away from hitting theaters, it promises to be an exciting continuation of the franchise.
Latest Updates on I Am Legend 2
Will Smith Outlines Story Direction for the Sequel
The narrative premise of I Am Legend 2 has been a hot topic among fans. Recent announcements from Will Smith clarify crucial details about the story’s trajectory. The resurrection of Smith’s character, Robert Neville, posed a considerable challenge, posthumously elevating discussions about a possible prequel. However, Smith has confirmed that I Am Legend 2 will be a genuine sequel, following the conclusion of Matheson’s original story rather than the contentious finale from the original film. This revision signifies that Neville has survived and will take center stage in the sequel.
Moreover, Smith has shared insights into Michael B. Jordan’s role, stating that he does not play Neville’s son. Instead, Jordan is characterized as “the head of a new settlement”located in Connecticut, although further specifics about the character remain undisclosed. Notably, Smith mentioned that the current designation of Jordan’s role may still evolve as the script develops.
Read Smith’s complete quote below:
What we were gonna do was the prequel, so we were gonna do the prequel. … And [Akiva Goldsman] was like, but wait, what if we make a new version from the alternate ending, where your character is still alive and you know, Michael B. Jordan’s character currently is the head of a new settlement… He’s not my son… So there’s a settlement in Connecticut.
Confirmation of I Am Legend 2
I Am Legend 2 Is Officially Under Development
On March 4, 2022, it was reported that Warner Bros. was officially developing I Am Legend 2. A significant positive development is the return of screenwriter Akiva Goldsman, who will craft the script. Though discussions around a sequel began shortly after the original’s success, initial plans focused on a prequel, which never materialized. At present, the project is still navigating its developmental stages with the script yet to be finalized.
While Francis Lawrence, who directed the initial movie, has not been confirmed to return for this sequel, the potential for an impactful continuation is evident.
Current Production Status
I Am Legend 2 Remains in Pre-Production
Despite numerous encouraging updates, I Am Legend 2 is currently locked in pre-production. The project has been in development for over a decade and is still awaiting finalization on numerous fronts. Often described as being in “production hell,”various factors have impeded its progress.
Determining a release date remains speculative at this stage, which will likely become more defined as filming commences. Though uncertainties persist, once the script reaches completion and is approved, filming is expected to advance rapidly, especially with high-profile actors like Smith and Jordan attached to the project.
Cast Information
Will Smith & Michael B. Jordan to Lead the Cast
Will Smith will reprise his role as Robert Neville in I Am Legend 2, while Michael B. Jordan will also join the cast. Although details regarding Jordan’s character remain unclear, he will not portray Neville’s son; instead, he is described as the leader of a survivor group in Connecticut. Alice Braga has expressed interest in returning, hinting she could reprise her role as Anna. Currently, no other casting announcements have been made, and additional casting updates may take time.
The preliminary cast list for I Am Legend 2 is as follows:
| Actor | Role in I Am Legend 2 |
|---|---|
| Will Smith | Robert Neville |
| Michael B. Jordan | Unknown |
Plot Insights
Exploring Neville’s Return in the Sequel
Screenwriter Akiva Goldsman has provided some critical insights into the upcoming story of I Am Legend 2, confirming that the narrative will unfold decades after the original film. Importantly, the sequel will deviate from the original ending where Neville sacrifices himself, opting instead for the alternate ending more aligned with Matheson’s novel.
In this new ending, Neville realizes that the infected beings do not seek to harm him; they are attempting to rescue one of their own that he had captured, transforming the perception of who the true monsters are. Goldsman highlighted the influence of The Last of Us on the sequel, expressing a desire to explore a post-apocalyptic world where nature has reclaimed its territory. He has also hinted at a setting in New York City, similar to the first film.
This commitment to making the sequel more faithful to the source material is an encouraging update, as it allows for an exploration of the societal dynamics within a zombie-infected world. Additionally, Smith’s revelation that Jordan’s character leads a settlement in Connecticut hints at the civilization elements Goldsman alluded to for I Am Legend 2.