Three movies in, and there are still big things in store for the John Wick saga, the latest of which involves upcoming prequel miniseries, The Continental, which is now moving from STARZ to Peacock for its premiere in the new year.
“The John Wick films have become a global phenomenon, are among the most watched titles on Peacock and we are thrilled and honored to partner with Lionsgate to extend this incredible franchise,” said Kelly Campbell, President, Peacock and Direct-to-Consumer. “We understand the value of a global franchise and Val Boreland and team knew that by bringing this special event series to Peacock and putting the full power of NBCUniversal behind it, the premiere of The Continental will be the streaming event of the year.”
“John Wick has become part of the cultural zeitgeist with a massive, passionately engaged fan base around the world,” said Lionsgate Television Group Chair Kevin Beggs. “We’re delighted to partner with Peacock to continue expanding the John Wick Universe. This agreement reflects the collaboration of our Motion Picture Group, which has grown the franchise from the beginning and was excited by the opportunity to bring it to the next level, Jim Packer and his Worldwide Television Distribution team, which found the perfect home for The Continental, and the Lionsgate Television creative group, which created a brilliant and enduring property that is one of the most highly-anticipated streaming events of 2023.”
Told from the perspective of the hotel manager, a young Winston Scott is dragged through 1975 New York to face a past he thought he’d left behind. In an attempt to seize control of the iconic hotel, which serves as a meeting point for the world’s most dangerous criminals, Winston charts a deadly course through the mysterious underworld of New York City.
Actor Colin Woodell will take on the mantle of the Winston Scott role based on Ian McShane’s character in the films, with Ayomide Adegun succeeding franchise co-star Lance Reddick in the prequel series as a young Charon, and Peter Greene donning the fedora of tight-lipped body disposal expert Uncle Charlie. Rounding out the roster are Mel Gibson, as Cormac; Ben Robson as Frankie; Hubert Point-Du Jour as Miles; Jessica Allain as Lou; Mishel Prada as KD; and Nhung Kate as Yen.
Going forward, I can’t help but wonder if these characters will tie into the new films. Indeed, there has to be some sort of legacy connection that will connect the show with future installments, which is the only way I can make sense of the posterity being put in place. Whatever it is, I’m here for it.
Greg Coolidge and Kirk Ward serve as writers and showrunners on The Continental. According to Monday’s press release, they also exec produce alongside Albert Hughes, who directed the first and third episodes, or “nights” as they are referred to.
Thunder Road Pictures’ Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee, Chad Stahelski, Derek Kolstad, David Leitch, Shawn Simmons, Paul Wernick, Rhett Reese, and Marshall Persinger also exec produce. Charlotte Brandstrom directs the second “night.” Interesting!
