The shocking death of Paul Walker last November took just about everybody by surprise, least of all the cast and crew on Fast & Furious 7, who over the course of four movies had come to view the actor as a brother. Production was put on hold indefinitely, with cameras only rolling again earlier this month. There was much speculation on what would become of Walker's character, and the extensive amount of footage he had already shot, and before cameras started rolling, Universal Pictures announced they would retire Brian O'Connell, giving Walker a fitting send off while still letting the franchise go on without him. In an amazing show of respect, the production has decided to keep it in the family, bringing in Walker's brothers, Caleb and Cody, to help with any remaining pick up shots, as opposed to using just any old body double. Read the statement announcing the brothers involvement below.
A Note to the Fans of FAST & FURIOUS
The FAST & FURIOUS saga is about family. The characters are connected by the bond of family, and it is how all of us who have worked together for more than thirteen years feel about each other. It certainly defines how we feel about our fans.
Our family experienced an unthinkable shock in November. We had to take time to grieve Paul, the brother we love and lost, and to figure out if we should move on with our film.
We came together and all felt the only choice was to continue. We believe our fans want that, and we believe Paul would want that too. Paul had already shot his dramatic scenes and most of his action for FAST & FURIOUS 7, and it’s among the strongest work of his career.
We have resumed shooting and now welcome Paul’s brothers, Caleb and Cody, into our FAST family. Caleb and Cody are helping us complete some remaining action for their brother and fill in small gaps left in production. Having them on set has made us all feel that Paul is with us too.
We are just under a year away from the release of FAST & FURIOUS 7, and this film is the most important we’ve ever done together. It will allow the character of Brian O’Conner to live on and let us celebrate Paul in his most defining role.
We wanted to take a moment to speak to our fans directly and thank you for the love and support you always show us as we resume our work.
Fast & Furious 7 is expected to hit cinemas April 10th 2015.
