There's been plenty of speculation surrounding the long-anticipated
Space Jam sequel, starring NBA superstar LeBron James. It's been a roller coaster of a ride, with various directors and writers attached to the project over the years, but it looks like the highly anticipated follow-up is starting to take shape.
LeBron James' Springhill Entertainment announced today that
Black Panther writer and director Ryan Coogler has signed on as a producer. A photo posted to the company's social media revealed an all-star lineup for the sequel that includes producer Ryan Coogler, director Terence Nance, NBA superstar LeBron James, and animated cartoon character Bugs Bunny.
Coming off
Black Panther, Coogler, whose credits also include
Creed and
Fruitvale Station, is one of the most sought-after artists in Hollywood. His brilliant work on Marvel Studios'
Black Panther was praised by James, who is hoping for
Space Jam to be more than just a sequel.
“
The Space Jam collaboration is so much more than just me and the Looney Tunes getting together and doing this movie,” James told The Hollywood Reporter.
“It's so much bigger. I'd just love for kids to understand how empowered they can feel and how empowered they can be if they don't just give up on their dreams. And I think Ryan did that for a lot of people.”
Coogler's
Black Panther grossed $1.34 billion worldwide. More importantly, it broke ground as a superhero movie with the unique perspective of a predominantly black cast.
“I loved his vision," James said.
"So for Ryan to be able to bring that to kids, it's amazing."
While many will view this
Space Jam sequel as another pillar in the LeBron James vs Michael Jordan debate for greatest of all time, it's clear this movie means a lot to James in terms of inspiring and empowering children. We still don't have any plot details, but you can expect a heartwarming message mixed into all the zany and wacky basketball adventures featuring Warner Bros. Looney Toons and the NBA's biggest star.
The
Space Jam sequel doesn't yet have a release date, but production is expected to begin in 2019 during the NBA off-season.