Keanu Reeves’ Long Crusade for Constantine 2 Gains New Momentum as James Gunn Weighs In — But the Script Remains the Final Hurdle

For nearly two decades, fans of the 2005 cult classic Constantine have been clamoring for a sequel that would bring Keanu Reeves back as the chain-smoking, demon-hunting occult detective John Constantine. The original film, directed by Francis Lawrence and based on the DC/Vertigo comic Hellblazer, carved out a unique niche in the superhero genre with its gritty, supernatural horror tone, moral ambiguity, and stylish visuals. While it wasn’t a massive box-office smash at the time, it has since earned a devoted following, with many praising Reeves’ understated yet magnetic performance as the jaded exorcist who walks the thin line between heaven and hell.

Now, in 2026, the dream of Constantine 2 feels closer than ever — yet still frustratingly out of reach. Keanu Reeves has made it clear on multiple occasions that he remains deeply committed to returning to the role. In recent interviews, the actor revealed that he and director Francis Lawrence have been actively trying to resurrect the project for over a decade. Their persistence finally paid off when they put together a compelling story treatment and pitched it directly to DC Studios. To their relief, the studio gave the green light to proceed with writing a full screenplay.

Reeves has sounded genuinely optimistic in his latest comments. A fresh draft of the script recently landed on his desk, and he confirmed plans to submit it to the studio for feedback, adding a hopeful “fingers crossed” that executives will respond positively. This marks tangible progress after years of stops and starts, including delays caused by the 2023 Writers Guild strike and shifting leadership at Warner Bros. Discovery. The involvement of acclaimed screenwriter Akiva Goldsman, who has been collaborating closely with Reeves and Lawrence, adds further credibility to the project’s creative direction.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the saga is the input from James Gunn, co-chair of DC Studios alongside Peter Safran. In a candid appearance on the BobaTalks podcast in late 2025, Gunn addressed the long-gestating sequel directly. He confirmed that he has spoken with Keanu Reeves about Constantine 2 “on and off” over time. Gunn expressed admiration for the team involved, describing them as “a great group of guys” and praising their talent. However, he was quick to add a crucial caveat: he has not yet read any version of the script.

This balanced response from Gunn is typical of his leadership style at DC Studios. Since taking the helm, Gunn has emphasized quality control, a clear creative vision for the main DC Universe, and a willingness to support strong standalone projects under the Elseworlds banner — the label reserved for stories that exist outside the primary continuity of films like Superman or The Batman. Constantine 2 appears destined for this Elseworlds category, allowing it to maintain the darker, more mature tone of the 2005 original without needing to tie directly into Gunn’s interconnected DCU plans.

The fact that Gunn has engaged in conversations with Reeves is significant. It suggests the project has at least reached the level of serious discussion at the highest levels of DC Studios. Yet Gunn’s insistence that he hasn’t seen a script underscores a key reality in modern Hollywood development: even star-driven passion projects must clear rigorous creative and commercial hurdles. Until a polished screenplay lands on his desk and earns approval, Constantine 2 remains in a state of cautious optimism rather than active pre-production.

Director Francis Lawrence has echoed Reeves’ enthusiasm while tempering expectations. In early 2025 interviews, Lawrence stated that the team is “closer than ever” to making the sequel a reality. He described the story ideas they have developed as “really, really great” and something that has everyone involved genuinely excited. Lawrence, who helmed the original film and later went on to direct major blockbusters like The Hunger Games: Catching Fire and I Am Legend, brings both nostalgia and proven big-budget expertise to the table. His return would help ensure that any sequel honors the atmospheric, horror-infused style that made the first movie stand out.

The long road to Constantine 2 reflects the complicated history of the character in live-action. After the 2005 film, Matt Ryan portrayed a more comic-accurate version of John Constantine in the short-lived NBC series and later in Arrowverse crossover appearances. While those iterations earned praise, many fans still hold a special place for Reeves’ cooler, more brooding take on the anti-hero. Reeves himself has repeatedly expressed his love for the character, noting how Constantine’s world of angels, demons, and moral gray areas allows for rich storytelling that goes beyond traditional superhero fare.

What might Constantine 2 look like if it finally moves forward? Details remain scarce, but Reeves and Lawrence have hinted at a story that stays true to the original’s grounded supernatural thriller roots rather than shifting into full-blown superhero spectacle. Potential plot threads could draw from Hellblazer comics lore, exploring deeper themes of redemption, the occult underworld, or larger cosmic threats involving heaven and hell. There has even been speculation about Rachel Weisz potentially reprising her role as Angela Dodson, though nothing has been confirmed.

The project’s placement in the Elseworlds slate gives the creative team significant freedom. Unlike entries in Gunn’s main DCU, which must align with a shared continuity, Constantine 2 could exist as a standalone story — or perhaps lightly connect with other non-DCU projects like Matt Reeves’ The Batman universe. This flexibility is likely part of what appeals to Reeves and Lawrence, who have fought to preserve the dark, adult-oriented tone that defined the first film.

Despite the positive signals, challenges remain. Hollywood development is notoriously unpredictable, and even star power like Keanu Reeves’ cannot guarantee a green light. The script must not only satisfy Gunn and Safran’s high standards but also prove commercially viable in an era where audiences have grown more selective with theatrical releases. Budget considerations, rating ambitions (the original was R-rated), and scheduling conflicts with Reeves’ packed slate — including John Wick spin-offs and other projects — could all play a role in the timeline.

Still, the momentum feels real. Reeves’ recent updates, combined with Lawrence’s “closer than ever” comments and Gunn’s acknowledgment of ongoing discussions, suggest that Constantine 2 has moved beyond mere wishful thinking. For a character who famously cheats death and navigates the shadows between worlds, it seems fitting that his big-screen return has endured such a long, tortuous journey.

Fans of the original film have waited patiently through false starts, rumors, and radio silence. Many hope that when — or if — Constantine 2 finally materializes, it will capture the same moody atmosphere, sharp writing, and Keanu Reeves’ quiet intensity that made the first movie a cult favorite. In an age of endless franchises and interconnected universes, a standalone supernatural thriller starring one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors would offer a refreshing change of pace.

As of now, the ball is in the studio’s court. A new script draft is ready for review, conversations between Reeves and James Gunn have taken place, and the creative team remains passionate and committed. Whether Constantine 2 finally escapes development hell and reaches theaters remains to be seen — but for the first time in years, the light at the end of the tunnel feels a little brighter.

Keanu Reeves has never been one to give up easily, and his dedication to John Constantine mirrors the character’s own stubborn refusal to accept defeat. If the stars — and the script — finally align, audiences may soon hear those iconic words once again: “Constantine. John Constantine.”