Keanu Reeves wasn’t originally meant to be in Ballerina – but here’s why that changed

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Enthusiasts of the John Wick series were thrilled upon learning that Keanu Reeves would star in Ballerina, but as it turns out, this wasn’t initially part of the plan, according to the film’s director Chad Stahelski.

Under Len Wiseman’s direction, this spin-off film primarily centers around Ana de Armas’ character, Eve Macarro, and includes a brief appearance of Keanu Reeves portraying the Baba Yaga.

Regarding the prospect of providing the fresh movie a fair opportunity, director-producer Stahelski (of Ballerina) stated that a John Wick return was not initially planned in the original script.

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In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, director Chad Stahelski, who oversaw all four primary John Wick movies, mentioned that it wasn’t part of the initial storyline.

Initially, I had reservations about it, but upon reflection, I can see the value it brings. We were keen to lend our support to director Len Wiseman.

According to Stahelski, the key approach for providing a strong base for “Ballerina” was to incorporate John Wick in some role, following the franchise’s success, especially the impressive Chapter 4.

Just minutes ago, we premiered “John Wick 4” and it was an enormous success. However, going back to the original model of “John Wick” and attempting to create a $18 million indie film wasn’t an option for Stahelski when discussing the spin-off. In simpler terms, he couldn’t consider making a small independent movie as a follow-up to the blockbuster success of “John Wick 4”.

To ensure he continues participating, it’s crucial to provide him with an opportunity to compete. The simplest method, from our perspective as producers, was to include character Wick in the movie “Ballerina”, but on a unique timeline.

Tomorrow in theaters, the movie “Ballerina” features Reeves reprising his role as John Wick. The story unfolds between the incidents of “John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum,” where the titular character Ballerina was initially introduced (by ballet dancer Unity Phelan), and “Chapter 4.

Ballerina is released in cinemas on 6 June.

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2025-06-05 20:49