Following the widely successful hybrid released in theaters and on HBO Max, the Dune franchise will continue in a highly anticipated sequel. Notably, the original film’s stars Zendaya and Timothée Chalamet are on board to return. Now, As first reported by the Hollywood Reporter, Academy Award winner Christopher Walken is the latest star to join the blossoming film franchise.
Per the initial report, Walken will play the ruler of the known universe known as The Padishah Emperor. Within the events of the first film, The Emperor sends the Atreides family to Arrakis in order to cause their downfall. In the sequel, he will need to contest the burgeoning rebellion. Jose Ferrer previously played the part in the 1984 version of Dune. Walken joins fellow newcomers Florence Pugh and Austin Butler in the ensemble cast.
READ: ‘Halo’ Episode 8 Spoiler Recap/Review “Allegiance”
The first film hails from director Denis Villeneuve with a screenplay by Jon Spaihts (Passengers) and Eric Roth (Forrest Gump). Dune is based on the 1965 novel of the same name by Frank Herbert. Additionally, the film adaptation features an all-star ensemble including Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista, Zendaya, David Dastmalchian, Jason Momoa, and Javier Bardem. Releasing in October, the film earned an impressive $40.1 million in its domestic debut. Notably, the film’s box office gross makes the film the biggest of the year for Warner Bros.
Christopher Walken has appeared in more than 100 films and television programs over his 70-year career. Most recently, the cinematic legend appeared in the BBC One and Amazon Prime series The Outlaws alongside Stephen Merchant. Additionally, the actor appears opposite Parks & Rec star Adam Scott in Ben Stiller’s critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series Severance.
What do you think? Are you looking forward to Dune 2? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
—–
Did you enjoy this article? If so, consider visiting our YouTube channel, where we discuss the latest and greatest in pop culture news.
