Chad Stahelski to Oversee Highlander and John Wick Franchises for Lionsgate

Chad Stahelski to Oversee Highlander and John Wick Franchises for Lionsgate

Acclaimed director Chad Stahelski, renowned for his work on the John Wick film franchise, has signed a deal with Lionsgate. The agreement includes Stahelski directing the Highlander reimagining as his next film and assuming creative oversight of both the Highlander and John Wick franchises across various platforms, including film, television, and multimedia. Henry Cavill has also been attached to the Highlander project for some time for the lead role.

Stahelski, along with his company 87Eleven Entertainment, is leading a comprehensive multi-platform content strategy to expand these franchises. His deal also grants him creative oversight for the John Wick series, which he has been instrumental in shaping having delivered four films in the series that have all delivered on every note with leading man Keanu Reeves.

Having long championed his vision for Highlander which has ranged from plans for a trilogy or a TV series, Stahelski’s commitment to the project has paid off significantly as he now holds the keys to the castle for the beloved franchises.

Lionsgate has entrusted him, a devoted fan of Highlander, with the responsibility of guiding the immediate and long-term creative vision, franchise development, and strategic expansion of both iconic franchises.

Stahelski will continue collaborating with Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee from Thunder Road for the John Wick series and alongside Neal H. Moritz and the estate of the late Peter S. Davis for Highlander.

Highlander centers on a group of immortal beings, known as Highlanders, with the primary focus on Connor MacLeod, a Scottish Highlander born in the 16th century. The series follows Connor’s discovery of his immortality after surviving a fatal battle wound, and his subsequent fights against others of his kind.

Expressing his excitement, Stahelski commented:

“I am pleased to grow my relationship with Lionsgate in this new oversight role for the John Wick universe and its further expansion. John Wick is so close to my heart, and to continue shepherding it will be a blast for me. I’m so happy to also be launching another franchise with Highlander, a world that is so rich with engaging stories to be told.”

Stahelski’s distinct direction and impactful style have been integral to the immense success of the John Wick series, with all four films achieving critical acclaim and becoming a beloved franchise among fans.

Stahelski has shown that he is not only an incredible creative mind but also a huge fan of the fandom as he also has been tied to many intriguing projects including an adaptation of the beloved video game Ghost of Tsushima.