Keanu Reeves‘ future in the John Wick franchise remains a hot topic, as the series evolves following the assassin’s on-screen demise and the recent success of Ballerina. While fans speculated about how the brand would move forward after John Wick: Chapter 4, Ballerina’s positive reception and performance hint at a thriving path ahead—even without its original star.
A New Era with Ana de Armas in the Spotlight
Following John Wick’s apparent death two years ago, audiences were surprised to see Keanu Reeves reprise his role in Ballerina, thanks to its story slotting in between previous franchise chapters. The film takes full advantage of this timeline, allowing Reeves’ return without undoing the conclusion of Chapter 4. Yet, Ballerina also demonstrates a compelling direction for the franchise by introducing Ana de Armas as Eve Macarro, a character poised to shape the series‘ future.
Replacing Keanu Reeves and his iconic character is daunting, as the pairing set a standard for modern action films. The idea of finding someone capable of carrying the John Wick brand has been met with skepticism. Ballerina, however, exceeds expectations by making its mark through Ana de Armas’ portrayal of Eve Macarro, a member of Ruska Roma who seeks vengeance for a personal loss. While Eve’s story mirrors elements found in John Wick’s journey, her character quickly evolves into something distinct; she expresses more vulnerability, faces unique challenges, and brings a fresh perspective to the underworld of trained assassins.
Ana de Armas’ performance brings depth to Eve, making her an absorbing protagonist. Her physical skills in Ballerina showcase her credentials as an action star, setting her apart from Keanu Reeves’ style. The filmmakers highlight these contrasts, both narratively and in the intense fight sequences that center on Eve. With a different fighting approach, the action sequences feel refreshed, and audiences are treated to exhilarating scenes with de Armas taking the helm.
No one can ever truly replace John Wick. This is his franchise after all. Not even Ballerina can ignore that fact. Yet, Eve Macarro deserves a spotlight of her own. John Wick doesn’t need to keep bringing Keanu Reeves back now that Ana de Armas is around. She’s got what it takes to lead the franchise from here from a character and star perspective.
Ballerina’s Box Office Performance Offers Hope for the Franchise
Transitioning away from the central character in a lucrative action franchise is easier when audiences accept a new star. While Ballerina’s opening weekend fell just short of projections, its $24 million debut still beats the original John Wick’s performance over its first week. Domestically, Ballerina earned $31,106,148 in its initial week, outperforming the first John Wick’s $19.5 million. At present, its worldwide gross stands at $57,106,148. Though not yet a runaway hit compared to later John Wick installments, these numbers are promising for a spin-off led by a new character.
Ballerina’s budget, reportedly $90 million, was kept moderate by Lionsgate with profitability in mind, given the franchise’s escalating financial stakes. Industry estimates suggest a $225 million gross is necessary for break-even, a target that is still in question. Still, compared to how the franchise began, Ballerina’s strong showing for a non-Reeves entry stands as evidence that audiences are willing to embrace change if the quality remains high. The evolution towards a new lead may even alleviate the financial temptation to resurrect John Wick.
The financial pressure to bring [John Wick] back will decrease if Eve can carry that burden
As Ballerina steadily climbs at the box office, it is poised to outpace the original film’s domestic and global numbers. With Ana de Armas proving herself a worthy successor and viewers embracing Eve, there is less need to return to the series’ roots or reverse John Wick’s fate. This sustained interest may be the key to allowing the new generation of characters to flourish and keep the franchise financially strong.
Chad Stahelski’s Stewardship Will Shape the Next Phase
Keanu Reeves’ absence from the protagonist’s role marks a significant transition, but trusted creative leadership remains intact. Franchise architect Chad Stahelski, who directed the first four John Wick films, now oversees broader creative aspects across the series, ensuring consistency and high-caliber action. Although Ballerina was directed by Len Wiseman, Stahelski contributed to crafting standout sequences, highlighting his ongoing influence on franchise DNA.
Under Stahelski’s guidance, Ballerina maintained the franchise’s standard for creative, edge-of-the-seat action, even as the film diverged from John Wick’s trademark “gun-fu.” Fresh set pieces—featuring everything from flamethrowers to ice skates—explored Eve’s unique combat style and solidified the spin-off’s individuality. Stahelski’s commitment will extend to planned offshoots, including Donnie Yen’s Caine spin-off, keeping quality controls in place as the universe expands.
With Stahelski in charge and ongoing collaboration with Keanu Reeves behind the scenes, the John Wick franchise is well-positioned to thrive even as it leaves the familiar comfort of its founding character. Their involvement should reassure both fans and investors that the series’ hallmark action and meticulous world-building will endure across future installments.
Letting John Wick Rest: Why Moving On Can Strengthen the Series
Multiple factors—including audience investment in new leads, solid financial returns, and the franchise’s continued creative oversight—suggest now is the right time for Lionsgate to allow the character of John Wick to remain at rest. Ballerina succeeded in expanding the world, proving that compelling stories and new perspectives can coexist with the rich tapestry established by earlier films. Some plot complications arose from John Wick’s return in Ballerina, yet the film demonstrated that fresh narratives thrive without his constant involvement.
I’m ready for the post-Ballerina era of the John Wick franchise and let John Wick stay dead
Attempting to reverse John Wick’s death could diminish the powerful send-off delivered in Chapter 4 and complicate future storytelling. The franchise has built a deep world that invites new heroes and adventures, and Ballerina’s reception makes clear there is appetite for those stories. The time is right to let the saga evolve past its original hero, with Keanu Reeves’ influence remaining important but with Ana de Armas’ Eve Macarro deservedly moving into the center stage.
The Road Ahead: New Faces and Enduring Action
John Wick’s departure sets the stage for a riskier, more energetic future defined by new characters, thrilling action, and fresh creative directions. Ana de Armas has proven herself both as a compelling action star and worthy narrative successor, while Chad Stahelski’s stewardship guarantees the franchise’s signature style will remain. With its next projects—such as Caine’s spin-off and possible animated features—the franchise continues to draw in audiences without relying solely on Reeves’ iconic role.
As the John Wick universe grows, industry watchers and fans alike will be watching closely to see if the series can sustain its momentum and box office appeal. For now, the combination of new talent, a strong creative team, and a receptive audience suggests Keanu Reeves’ future in the John Wick franchise will be as a legacy—honored and influential, but not always front and center. The success of Ballerina signals a bold new chapter, welcoming new heroes and stories into this blockbuster action world.
