There was an earlier report that the eighth installment to the "Fast and Furious" franchise has hit a production snag because lead star and producer Vin Diesel has been "extraordinarily difficult" to work with, given his intent to make everything perfect for "Furious 8."
Many have assumed that he was the reason why "Furious 7" director James Wan declined to handle the eighth film even after he was offered a huge amount of money by Universal just do do it. However, Wan declined that this was the case and cited health issues, while Universal stated that they wouldn't be working with Diesel had he really been difficult. Moreover, another franchise producer Justin Lin was reportedly offered the job, but he also turned it down to direct the next "Star Trek" film.
They still haven't found a director willing to take on "Furious 8," and Diesel himself is now addressing that very issue on his personal Facebook page.
"The fans of the Fast & Furious SAGA are the best fans in the world... Since I became the Producer in 2008, you have been with me every step of the way... literally giving me feedback that proved invaluable. Thank you," he wrote. "My producing partner Neal would love for me to just sign off on a director, but this is too special a franchise, so these matters have to be very carefully handled. To be clear, NO ONE has been offered to helm 'Fast 8' yet... let alone seen a script."
Diesel added that Universal has been so good to him since he was given their complete trust to fulfill the film's vision. "They have been like family... I promised the studio I would deliver one last Trilogy to end the saga. I will announce the directors on my next post."
In his next post, however, Diesel made no mention of any director, but provided a heartfelt update nonetheless.
"All weekend long, my producing partner Neal, the Studio and myself have been mapping out the future of our SAGA... All aspects of the trilogy, including the announcement of it's respective directors, which is only building our excitement," he shared. "I am really enjoying this process... but what gives me a unique sense of pride is that you all have been a part of it. To hear them reference the comments you contribute to Our page is truly amazing.
On behalf of the FAST Family, we thank you for making our DVD the biggest in history. We make these films with Our hearts."
