Chad Stahelski, the director of all four “John Wick” movies, has signed a multi-year, first-look production deal between Lionsgate and his production company 87Eleven Entertainment.
The deal expands the existing partnership between Stahelski and Lionsgate and allows the stunt-heavy filmmaker to focus on making original action movies. The deal was announced Wednesday by Adam Fogelson, chair of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.
“Chad and his team at 87Eleven Entertainment are profoundly talented filmmakers and creative collaborators,” said Fogelson in a statement. “They raise the bar of excellence on every project they take on, and we are looking to Chad to bring us the best new original action projects that we can work on together and turn into the next hits and franchises.”
The news comes weeks after Stahelski was given the reins to oversee the “John Wick” and “Highlander” franchises across all media for Lionsgate. The nexts film he’s directing is a remake of “Highlander” starring Henry Cavill.
“Lionsgate has been my home studio throughout my career as a feature director, so it only makes sense that I would base our film production business with the team that has been such extraordinary partners for so many years,” said Stahelski.
Next up for the “John Wick” universe is the “Ballerina” spinoff, starring Ana de Armas. Last month, it was delayed from this summer to 2025, as Stahelski works with director Len Wiseman on additional action sequences for the film.
Stahelski is aided by his key team at 87Eleven Entertainment, including Jason Spitz and Alex Young. He is represented by WME, attorney Tara Kole and Mortimer PR. Lionsgate’s Bonnie Stylides oversaw the dealmaking on behalf of the studio.
