Vin Diesel has confirmed that the remainder of “Fast X: Part 2” will be filmed in Los Angeles, marking the franchise’s return to its original setting. The decision comes at a time when the region is dealing with widespread destruction from wildfires that have claimed at least 28 lives and caused billions in damages.
Diesel made the announcement on social media, reflecting on the significance of Los Angeles to the franchise’s origins. “Los Angeles is where Fast and Furious started filming 25 years ago… and now Fast will finally return home,” he wrote. The first film in the series, “The Fast and the Furious” (2001), focused on Los Angeles street racing culture, with Diesel’s character Dominic Toretto at its center.
Brewster Advocates for the Change
Diesel revealed that his co-star Jordana Brewster, who has been a key part of the franchise since the beginning, played a pivotal role in this decision. According to Diesel, Brewster urged him to persuade Universal Pictures to move the production back to Los Angeles, highlighting the city’s pressing need for support in light of the ongoing crisis. “The city needs it now more than ever,” Brewster reportedly told Diesel.
While Universal has not issued an official response or detailed the logistics of the move, Diesel’s announcement underscores the franchise’s intent to contribute to local economic recovery. It remains unclear how much filming remains to complete “Fast X: Part 2”, which currently does not have an official release date.
Wildfires Impacting the Entertainment Community
The decision to return to Los Angeles takes on added significance as the city continues to battle catastrophic wildfires. In addition to the loss of life and property, the fires have displaced many in the entertainment industry, with figures like Billy Crystal, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Milo Ventimiglia, and Tyra Banks among those affected.
The fires, fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, have strained local resources and displaced thousands of residents. The return of a major production such as “Fast X: Part 2” could offer a boost to the local economy, creating jobs and drawing attention to relief efforts.
The Franchise’s Global Journey Comes Full Circle
The Fast & Furious franchise has become a global phenomenon, with each installment exploring international locations, including Tokyo, Rio de Janeiro, London, and Havana. However, Diesel’s decision to bring the production back to Los Angeles reflects a desire to honor the city that launched the saga in 2001.
Directed by Louis Leterrier, “Fast X: Part 2” features an ensemble cast that includes Jason Statham, Michelle Rodriguez, Jason Momoa, Tyrese Gibson, Ludacris, Nathalie Emmanuel, and Dwayne Johnson.
This move not only connects the latest installment to its roots but also aligns with efforts to revitalize a community facing extraordinary challenges. The filming is expected to generate jobs for local crews, supporting an entertainment industry hit hard by the wildfires and broader economic concerns.