Keanu Reeves Returns for Animated John Wick Prequel Movie
Lionsgate greenlights an animated prequel exploring the assassin's Impossible Task, with Keanu Reeves reprising his iconic role.
Published 7 November 2026
Official Green Light From Lionsgate
Lionsgate has officially given the green light to an animated John Wick movie, moving forward with a project that has been in development since last year. Keanu Reeves is set to reprise his iconic role as the legendary titular assassin in this upcoming feature.
Exploring the Impossible Task
The newly announced animated project serves as a prequel set before the events of the first film in the billion dollar-grossing action franchise. It will take audiences back in time to chronicle how the assassin completed the Impossible Task in order to free himself from his obligation to the High Table and earn the right to be with the love of his life, Helen.
Creative Team and Production
Behind the scenes, the animated film will be directed by Shannon Tindle, known for Ultraman: Rising, working from a script penned by Ryan Kaz Firpo, who previously wrote Eternals. Beyond lending his voice to the project, Keanu Reeves will also serve as a producer alongside franchise director Chad Stahelski and Thunder Road producers Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee.
Current Production Status
The project has officially entered the pre-production phase following the green light announcement. However, studio representatives have not yet announced any details regarding a potential release date for the animated feature.
Expanding the Action Franchise
This animated film represents the latest expansion of the massive blockbuster action franchise, which has already grown significantly beyond its mainline series. The universe previously expanded with the three-episode limited series The Continental on Peacock, followed by last year's spinoff film Ballerina starring Ana de Armas.
Future Projects in the Universe
Additional projects continue to build out the broader universe, including another spinoff led and directed by Donnie Yen titled Caine, which wrapped principal photography earlier this year. Meanwhile, development also remains ongoing for a potential John Wick: Chapter 5.
News Overview
Lionsgate has officially greenlit an animated John Wick prequel film with Keanu Reeves returning to voice the titular assassin and produce the project. Directed by Shannon Tindle and written by Ryan Kaz Firpo, the story explores the protagonist's Impossible Task before the events of the mainline film series.
Key facts
- Keanu Reeves will reprise his role as the titular assassin and serve as a producer.
- The animated film is a prequel set before the first movie in the franchise.
- The story follows the Impossible Task to free the assassin from the High Table and be with Helen.
- Shannon Tindle is set to direct the film, with a script written by Ryan Kaz Firpo.
- Other producers include Chad Stahelski, Basil Iwanyk, and Erica Lee.