Norman Reedus Cast in 'Ballerina' as he Joins the 'John Wick'-Universe

by Darian Scalamoni

    Studios are all about the game of building out franchises or cinematic universes for the current landscape of film and television. It's hard to believe that when John Wick was released, that Lionsgate knew they had a franchise on their hands. After three films, an upcoming fourth and an origin series about the Continental hotel, a spinoff film, Ballerina is in the works, and it's added to its cast yet again.

    According to an exclusive from Deadline, Norman Reedus (The Walking Dead, The Boondock Saints) will join Ballerina. Reedus joins an already exciting cast that includes John Wick mainstays such as Ian McShane, Lance Reddick and Anjelica Huston. The Ballerina that the title alludes to will be played by Ana De Armas, who was just recently nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance in Blonde where she plays iconic actress Marilyn Monroe. Keanu Reeves is also expected to make a cameo as the franchise star, John Wick within the movie. Ballerina will be written by Shay Hatten (John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum, Army of the Dead) and directed by Len Wiseman (Live Free or Die Hard, Underworld). Franchise creator Chad Stahelski will remain on as a producer.

    Reedus is best known for being in another popular franchise in the world of television, The Walking Dead where he played the beloved motorcycle riding tough guy, Daryl Dixon. Reedus appeared in over 170 episodes of the series before it commenced earlier this year. He's currently shooting this film in addition to a spinoff Walking Dead series set in France. 

    The actor also just wrapped filming on The Bikeriders, which is directed by Jeff Nichols. Reedus is joined by an all-star cast in the crime drama that also features Michael Shannon, Austin Butler, Tom Hardy and Jodie Comer. The John Wick franchise has amassed over $800 million dollars for the studio and will hope to build off that success with Ballerina as well.