‘Kingsman 2’ cast update: Fans split on Channing Tatum, clamour for Elton John

The upcoming sequel to hit comedy spy-thriller “Kingsman: The Secret Service” won’t hit theatres until June next year, but fans are already buzzing around the new cast members.

Whilst the actor Taron Egerton already confirmed that he’ll reprise the role of Eggsy, fans are wondering who will join him in “Kingsman: The Golden Circle.” Reports are swirling that A-list actresses Halle Berry and Julianne Moore are being pursued to be in the film.

This week, the movie has beefed up its cast with the inclusion of “Magic Mike” star Channing Tatum, who took to Twitter to confirm the news. The 35-year-old actor wrote, “I’m about to get all up in that Golden Circle.”

His role in the film is still being kept under wraps, but there are reports that he’ll represent the American counterpart of the secret spy organisation, and that he’ll team up with Eggsy to fight the villain.

The news wasn’t warmly welcomed “Kingsman” fans, who expressed doubts that Tatum would bring magic into the league of gentlemen. Facebook user Vynsnt Ymmnwl wrote, “#Bittersweet: glad that Kingsman: The Secret Service is returning with Kingsman: The Golden Circle, but with Channing Tatum? Please don’t let him ruin the franchise. Between his face and his abs, the dude just cannot act to save his life.” Matt Burns, on the other hand, commented, Channing Tatum is in Kingsman: The Golden Circle???? Well only thing I can say is I trust Matthew Vaughn cause he know what he’s doing. This casting of him may be out of left field but Matthew knows what he’s doing.”

Over on Twitter, fans share the same sentiments. While there were some who expressed excitement, others were critical of his addition to the film.

Tatum may not be receiving love from “Kingsman” fans, but Elton John is. Negotiations are reportedly underway to include the English singer-songwriter in the sequel’s cast, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Some social media users think it will be a little bit funny in a good way, claiming that John can play the role of a villain or appear in the film as himself.

Facebook user Dillon Delgado wrote, “Oh man he’d fit in perfectly! He would do a great job as a hero or a villain!” Another one, named Jace C. Biggs, commented, “I dunno how good of an actor he is, but I’d love to see it.” Laura Macaluso, meanwhile, wrote, “Now this is interesting. I can see this…. And I am liking it.”

In addition to Egerton, Mark Strong and Sophie Cookson also will return to reprise their roles as Merlin and Roxy, respectively. There are also reports that Colin Firth and Edward Holcroft are going to appear in the “Kingsman” sequel in some capacity. Their characters, Harry Hart/Galahad and Charlie, died in the first film. Apart from Tatum, newbies in the cast list will include “ Game of Thrones ” alum Pedro Pascal.

“Kingsman: The Golden Circle,” directed by Matthew Vaughn, is scheduled to premiere on June 16, 2017.