Shortly after being confirmed as the star of the “Helldivers” movie adaptation, Jason Momoa is out again. Sony is looking for a replacement and the cinema release in 2027 is shaky.
The planned cinema adaptation of the co-op shooter “Helldivers” is losing its leading actor: According to “The Hollywood Reporter”, Jason Momoa is no longer part of the production. What motivated the Hollywood star to do this remains unclear.
Momoa was only announced as the face of the project in February – it was pretty much the only thing known about the production. The studio has not yet announced any further cast, and they are also keeping quiet about the plot. Sony Pictures and PlayStation Productions are responsible for the adaptation. The director will be none other than “Fast & Furious” specialist Justin Lin.
Is the cinema release wobbly?
Sony still wants to stick to the project: the search for a new leading actor is already underway. Whether the targeted start date can be maintained remains questionable. “Helldivers” is scheduled to be released in cinemas worldwide on November 10, 2027. A new star who has to prepare and for whom the script may be adapted could postpone the project.
However, it is understandable that Sony is still sticking to the adaptation and pushing it forward. Because “Helldivers 2”, published by Sony Interactive Entertainment in February 2024, sold over twelve million copies within twelve weeks, making it the fastest-selling PlayStation title to date.
At the center of the plot are the eponymous Helldivers, an elite military unit from the fictional Super-Earth that defends the galaxy against hostile alien races.
Lin and Momoa: It’s not meant to be
What’s interesting about the unexpected cancellation is that it’s not the first time a collaboration between director Justin Lin and Hollywood star Momoa has fallen through. Lin brought the actor on board as the villain for “Fast & Furious 10,” only to throw in the towel shortly after filming began. But this time Momoa backs down.
However, the “Aquaman” star doesn’t have to worry about employment in the meantime. In 2026 he will be in front of the camera in “Supergirl”, “Street Fighter” and “Dune: Part Three”; He also lent his voice to the characters in the live-action animated comedy “Animal Friends” together with Ryan Reynolds. It remains unclear whether Jason Momoa’s busy schedule or other reasons caused the sudden exit.