'Fast and Furious 8' Release Date, Rumors: Planned Sequel Still Lacks Director

With "Furious 7," the latest installment in the Fast and Furious franchise, crushing the competition to race past the $500 million mark at the worldwide box office within a week, attention is now turning to the follow-up film.

There are, however, serious doubts as to whether the franchise, which suffered a major blow when Paul Walker died during the filming of "Furious 7," will be able to recruit a suitable actor to replace him and get a new director on board.

In addition to capturing a number of records after it debuted worldwide, the latest film also looks set to eclipse "Fifty Shades of Grey" as the current top earner of the year. The success of "Furious 7" has boosted calls for the making of "Fast and Furious 8."

However, it looks like Walker's death created difficulties for the next instalment.

Walker died in a car crash while he was on a Thanksgiving break in 2013. His character had to be digitally recreated in some scenes of "Furious 7" while his brothers stood in for him in others. His death also caused the film to be put on hold as several scenes had to be reshot, resulting in the film exceeding its budget.

Right now, no director is on board for "Fast and Furious 8." Universal Pictures is reportedly not planning on hiring anyone. It's possible the director of the latest film, James Wan, could return for the upcoming film as he initially was hired for two films.

Wan is currently helming the horror film "The Conjuring 2" which he is due to screen in October. "This means he has to finish his current project first before he can start working on "Fast and Furious 8."

Universal stated in 2014 that it planned to release 10 films in the franchise. Hence, "Fast and Furious 8" is likely but may face delays. Vin Diesel, the franchise star and producer, has hinted that he wants to set the next film in New York. As with earlier films, he said he wants to get involved in the drafting of the script once a release date is announced.

As for the cast of "Fast and Furious 8," there are indications that Eva Mendes could return. Other actors, including Helen Mirren, have expressed interest in the film.