Touching Note to Fans Announcing Paul Walker's Brothers Will Help Complete FAST & FURIOUS 7
A few months ago, when the fate of James Wan’s Fast & Furious 7 was still uncertain after the tragic death of star Paul Walker in November, it was rumored that Universal was looking to reach out to Walker’s brother Cody to help complete the film. Production restarted earlier this month, and today the filmmakers released a statement to fans announcing that Cody and Walker’s other brother Caleb will both be filling in for Paul to help complete some unfinished action scenes. Our heart goes out to the cast and crew and the Walker family as they finish this difficult task. I’m sure all Fast & Furious fans will appreciate everyone's determination to honor and pay tribute to the late actor by completing this film. Here is the full release:
A Note to the Fans of FAST & FURIOUS
The FAST & FURIOUS saga is about family. The characters are connected by the bond of family, and it is how all of us who have worked together for more than thirteen years feel about each other. It certainly defines how we feel about our fans.
Our family experienced an unthinkable shock in November. We had to take time to grieve Paul, the brother we love and lost, and to figure out if we should move on with our film.
We came together and all felt the only choice was to continue. We believe our fans want that, and we believe Paul would want that too. Paul had already shot his dramatic scenes and most of his action for FAST & FURIOUS 7, and it’s among the strongest work of his career.
We have resumed shooting and now welcome Paul’s brothers, Caleb and Cody, into our FAST family. Caleb and Cody are helping us complete some remaining action for their brother and fill in small gaps left in production. Having them on set has made us all feel that Paul is with us too.
We are just under a year away from the release of FAST & FURIOUS 7, and this film is the most important we’ve ever done together. It will allow the character of Brian O’Conner to live on and let us celebrate Paul in his most defining role.
We wanted to take a moment to speak to our fans directly and thank you for the love and support you always show us as we resume our work.
Fast & Furious 7 is scheduled for release on April 10, 2015.