In recent years, the Fast & Furious saga has experienced its fair share of turbulence, but it appears that the floodgates truly burst open with the release of last year’s Fast X. Amidst rumors and speculation, franchise star Vin Diesel confirmed his commitment to Fast XI, leaving fans eager for more details about the upcoming installment. However, Diesel’s recent Instagram posts about the film’s production have raised concerns rather than alleviating them.
On Thanksgiving, Diesel shared some insider information, revealing conflicting demands from Universal and Comcast. “I got universal in one ear saying we need FastX2 by March 2026!” he wrote. “I have Comcast in the other ear saying we need two movies to be the Finale! Then the writer on Fast Five sent me this image and said we need to see DOM and HOBBS resolve their differences. I just want to get back to real street racing, practical stunts… and a reunion of that beautiful brotherhood.” While Diesel’s intentions are clear – a return to the franchise’s roots – it is uncertain whether these desires align with the studio’s vision for its future.
Let’s unpack these revelations one by one. During Fast X’s premiere in Italy last year, Diesel expressed his belief that this story had enough potential to become its own trilogy. However, this proclamation came with a caveat – box office success would determine whether this vision could be realized. Unfortunately, Fast X became the second lowest-grossing film in the series post-Fast Five, making $715 million worldwide. Universal Studios has remained tight-lipped regarding their plans for the future of Fast & Furious beyond Fast XI.
Another point of contention lies within Diesel’s mention of Dom (his character) and Hobbs (played by Dwayne Johnson). The tension between Diesel and Johnson has been well-documented, resulting in the two actors refusing to share scenes during Fate of the Furious. This discord ultimately spawned the successful spinoff film, Hobbs & Shaw. While Hobbs did not appear in F9, his cameo in Fast X’s mid-credits scene hinted at a potential second spinoff. However, whether this project will come to fruition remains uncertain.
Diesel’s desire for a return to the franchise’s street racing roots and practical stunts resonates with fans who have witnessed the series evolve into a high-octane spectacle in recent installments. The acknowledgement of these concerns is evident in Diesel’s social media posts featuring set footage from Fast X2, showcasing practical shots and exteriors. It appears that Diesel, Universal Studios, and the producers have taken note of audience feedback and are striving to deliver a more grounded experience.
As we eagerly await Fast XI, it is clear that significant decisions lie ahead for the franchise. Will Universal accommodate both Diesel’s desire for realism and Comcast’s request for multiple movies? Can Dom and Hobbs finally resolve their differences on-screen? Will Fast XI mark a return to form for the beloved saga? Only time will tell.
