This past April, Paramount/Skydance announced at CinemaCon that the long-gestating sequel to the hit zombie epic "World War Z", based on the novel of the same name, was officially back in development after years of dormancy. Today, Deadline exclusively reports that original star and producer Brad Pitt has agreed to return to lead the film, with "Conclave" director Edward Berger (pictured below) now set to direct, replacing original helmer Marc Forster.
Berger recently wrapped another novel adaptation, "The Riders," with Pitt. He was also previously approached by Pitt and George Clooney to direct the fourth installment in the "Ocean's" franchise. However, Berger ultimately chose to take on "World War Z 2." Reportedly, Pitt's former stunt double, "Bullet Train" director David Leitch, is now slated to helm the next "Ocean's" film.
"World War Z" sequel plans have been in motion for years, with Pitt at one point bringing in his acclaimed director friend David Fincher to helm the project. However, those plans were ultimately shelved due to budget concerns, leading to Fincher's departure. It remains to be seen if Berger will successfully guide this iteration of the sequel all the way to production.