Keanu Reeves Is Back As John Wick: What We Know So Far

Keanu Reeves is once again stepping into the world of assassins, bullets, and betrayal as he officially returns for John Wick 5. The announcement was made at CinemaCon 2025, where Lionsgate confirmed that production is moving forward on the next installment of the globally beloved action franchise. After the cliffhanger ending of John Wick: Chapter 4, many believed the saga had reached its dramatic conclusion. However, fans can now rejoice as the seemingly impossible return of John Wick has been confirmed.

Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chairman Adam Fogelson emphasized that this new installment will not be a rehash of past glories. Instead, he assured audiences that the creative team — including longtime director Chad Stahelski and producers Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee — would not return unless they had something truly remarkable to offer. While plot details remain under wraps, the confirmation of Keanu Reeves’ involvement already promises a thrilling continuation of the high-octane universe.

Given the strong emotional and visual storytelling that defines the series, expectations for John Wick 5 are sky-high. What lies ahead for the Baba Yaga is still a mystery, but it is certain to involve intense choreography, deep lore, and edge-of-your-seat suspense.

Expanding The Universe: Donnie Yen’s Spin-Off Film “Caine”

The John Wick franchise is not just stopping at a fifth installment. Lionsgate has ambitious plans to expand the universe even further, starting with a solo film featuring Donnie Yen’s character, Caine. Introduced in John Wick: Chapter 4, Caine is a blind assassin with a fierce combat style and a layered backstory that caught the attention of audiences worldwide.

What makes this spin-off even more exciting is that Donnie Yen will not only star in the movie but will also take on directing duties. The project promises to dive deeper into the life, motivations, and moral conflicts of Caine. His code of honor, coupled with his devastating efficiency in combat, makes him a compelling figure capable of leading his own film.

This announcement is part of Lionsgate’s strategy to keep the franchise fresh and dynamic by exploring side stories within the same gritty, noir-style universe. Fans can expect rich character development, stylized action sequences, and new layers to the assassin underworld introduced in the main series.

John Wick’s Animated Prequel: A Glimpse Into His Infamous Past

Alongside the live-action developments, Lionsgate is also venturing into animation with a prequel starring Keanu Reeves himself. This animated project is set to explore the infamous “impossible task” — the event that helped Wick earn his freedom and legendary status in the criminal world.

Directed by Shannon Tindle, best known for his work on Ultraman: Rising, and written by Vanessa Taylor of Game of Thrones and The Shape of Water, the animated prequel will uncover the brutal, emotional, and action-packed journey that led to the beginning of Wick’s retirement. By bringing in high-caliber talent from both animation and screenwriting, Lionsgate is signaling that this is not just a filler project, but a meaningful expansion of the story.

The prequel is expected to introduce viewers to a younger, rawer version of John Wick, battling not only enemies but the internal demons that come with his bloody profession. This venture into animation allows for more creative freedom and a different storytelling style while staying true to the character’s essence.

John Wick Is Not Dead: What CinemaCon Revealed

Despite the dramatic and emotional finale of Chapter 4, which heavily implied Wick’s demise, it now appears that reports of his death were greatly exaggerated. The trailers for the upcoming spin-off film Ballerina, starring Ana de Armas, already hinted at his return. With Lionsgate now officially confirming Reeves’ involvement in Chapter 5, fans can put their worries to rest — John Wick is very much alive.

This shift opens up new narrative opportunities. How did Wick survive? Where has he been? And most importantly, why is he back? These questions will likely form the backbone of the upcoming installment. By leaving the door open, Lionsgate ensures the franchise remains flexible and unpredictable.

With fan demand still at an all-time high and the story far from over, Lionsgate’s decision to continue the franchise makes perfect business sense. For longtime fans, this is not just the return of an action icon, but a continuation of a world that has redefined the modern action genre.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Keanu Reeves officially confirmed for John Wick 5?
Yes, Lionsgate announced at CinemaCon 2025 that Keanu Reeves will return for John Wick 5, with longtime director Chad Stahelski also attached.

Q: What will John Wick 5 be about?
While the plot has not yet been revealed, the creative team has promised something fresh and innovative for the continuation of the character and the story.

Q: Is John Wick really alive?
Yes. Despite the ambiguous ending of Chapter 4, it is now confirmed that the character survived and will headline the fifth film.

Q: Who is Caine and what is his spin-off about?
Caine, played by Donnie Yen, is a blind assassin introduced in Chapter 4. He will star in and direct a new live-action spin-off focusing on his character’s journey.

Q: Will Keanu Reeves voice the animated John Wick?
Yes, Keanu Reeves is confirmed to lend his voice to the animated prequel that explores Wick’s past and the legendary “impossible task.”

Q: When will John Wick 5 be released?
As of now, no official release date has been provided, but production is moving forward, and updates are expected soon.