Rian Johnson, creator of the Rian Johnson Knives Out Mystery franchise, is looking ahead to potential casting for future films, even as
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery”
is set for Netflix release later this year. Johnson shared that Meryl Streep tops his wish list, seeing her as a perfect addition to the ensemble for Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc’s next case.
Meryl Streep Seen as a Natural Fit for a Rian Johnson Whodunit
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery”
already features a lineup of acclaimed actors, such as Glenn Close, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Thomas Haden Church, and Josh Brolin, promising an engaging cinematic experience. Despite this star-studded cast, Johnson is clearly thinking bigger for future stories, specifically eyeing Streep, an Oscar-winning performer renowned for her versatility.
Speaking with IndieWire about evolving the franchise, Johnson expressed his admiration for Streep’s talents and suitability for a murder mystery.
“There are so many great actors I’d like to work with. But, yes, if you’re reading this, Meryl Streep, I feel like you’d slot into a murder mystery very well.”
— Rian Johnson, Director
Streep already has mystery genre experience from her multiple seasons on the popular show “Only Murders in the Building.” Her background, combined with her reputation and skills, make her a logical contender for a role opposite Daniel Craig’s celebrated detective. Johnson believes she would easily adapt to the tone and style of his film series.
Industry Voices Support Streep as the Next Mystery Star
Rian Johnson’s comments have sparked enthusiasm among cast members and fans alike. Reiterating his position during a Variety interview, Johnson said,
“I feel like Meryl Streep would kill it. She was born to be in one of these movies; she’s hilarious.”
— Rian Johnson, Director
Andrew Scott, one of the central performers in “Wake Up Dead Man,” praised Streep’s comedic ability and discussed how both the film and the television series have refined the cozy crime genre.
“Only Murders in the Building is a great example, in that you’ve got the two best comedians in the world, and Selena Gomez and Meryl Streep; all these incredible comedic people. I suppose that juxtaposition of those two things is what people are into.”
— Andrew Scott, Actor
Audience Awaits the Arrival of the Latest Mysteries
The excitement is building as
“Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery”
plays in select cinemas and prepares for a global Netflix debut on December 12. Fans who appreciate carefully woven whodunits can also catch “Only Murders in the Building” on Disney Plus and Hulu, where Meryl Streep continues to showcase her range.
As Johnson’s ambitious vision for the franchise emerges, with critical reactions already calling the new film his
“best and most ambitious Benoit Blanc installment yet,”
audiences are left eager to see if Streep will indeed be invited into this ever-growing universe. If Johnson’s hopes come to fruition, the next Rian Johnson Knives Out Mystery could feature a new dynamic, led by the celebrated talents of Meryl Streep alongside returning favorites like Daniel Craig and other acclaimed stars.
