Charlie Hunnam Might Not Return In 'Pacific Rim 2' As Universal Pulls Plug On Sequel

Charlie Hunnam might not reprise his role in "Pacific Rim 2" as reports have surfaced that the sequel's release date has been delayed indefinitely.

The kaiju genre has seen a resurgence in the last few years. "Godzilla" reboot's success in 2014 led to Legendary's decision to develop more sequels, namely "Kong: Skull Island" and "Godzilla vs Kong," as they create their own giant monster cinematic universe. It's no argument that Guilermo Del Toro's "Pacific Rim" paved the way for the subgenre when he reintroduced kaijus to the big screen in 2013 with his robot-versus-giant monster flick.

It wasn't long after Del Toro announced that he was developing a follow-up with Charlie Hunnam, who played main character in the original film, returning to his role. However, the much-awaited sequel that has been stuck in development hell for quite a while now, may end up not happening at all.

It was previously announced that the filmmaker was would begin principal photography on the sequel in Toronto last fall, but reports surfaced in September claiming that the start date was being delayed to sometime this year. Shortly after, rumors started claiming that Legendary and Universal Pictures are cancelling the movie altogether. Del Toro later on clarified that the initial August 4, 2017 release had been lifted, but the movie is still pushing through.

Now, a report from The Hollywood Reporter claimed that the sequel has been taken down from Legendary's schedule of releases and is off the table indefinitely.

However, there's still hope for movie. Earlier this week, Forbes reported that investors, who collectively own over 50 percent of Legendary, have agreed to sell a majority of their stakes to Chinese property and development firm Wanda. The conglomerate could possibly be interested in seeing "Pacific Rim 2" get released as the first installment raked in most of its global earnings in China.

Stay tuned if Charlie Hunnam will return in "Pacific Rim 2" as updates become available.