‘Fast & Furious 8': Vin Diesel hints he wants to direct sequel, suggests possible director

“Fast & Furious 8” is scheduled for an April 14, 2017 release date yet there is still no director and no story attached to the film. While the search for the best person to helm the sequel is still ongoing, Vin Diesel recently expressed his interest to direct the film himself. He also shared who he thinks will be the best director if his wish to helm the film will not be granted.

The “Fast & Furious” actor took to his Facebook page on Thursday to issue a statement that somehow suggests he is considering stepping in as a director.

“I will share something crazy that my mother said six months ago after the studio had me announce the date for 8 to the world… Either you direct 8 yourself… or don’t do it.” I wrote it off as just a mother’s love and belief in me, though she has seen first-hand what I’ve done to make these movies defy expectations and become increasingly successful, even when the studio thought I was crazy… haha,” Diesel wrote.

However, despite his pure intentions Universal Studios is not willing to let the actor direct “Fast & Furious 8.” Insiders told The Hollywood Reporter that the studio is not happy with Diesel’s Facebook post suggesting his interest to direct the sequel. Universal is reportedly not even keen on the mere idea of having the “Fast & Furious” star take over the director’s chair. The insider claimed having Diesel as director “is never going to happen.”

Diesel also suggested to have Rob Cohen direct "Fast & Furious 8.” In the same Facebook post, the actor said that Cohen, who directed the 2001 “Fast & Furious” film, “can and would reset the franchise nicely" back to its original theme, which is racing.

According to MTV, the spotlight on racing has been taken away from the franchise since Cohen stepped out as director. Instead it was put on turning “Fast & Furious” into an action-packed series with impressive stunts. Diesel expressed his belief that Cohen will be able to put racing back as the focus in "Fast & Furious 8."

Diesel also suggested on his Facebook post having Cohen direct “Fast & Furious 8” would be a tribute to the late Paul Walker. It’s reportedly been the deceased’s desire to have Cohen helm another “Fast & Furious” film.

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