Paramount is betting big on the future of its Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. Although Sonic the Hedgehog 2 doesn’t hit theaters for another two months, the studio has officially greenlit a third film starring the pint-sized blue speedster. But that’s not all. Paramount+ is also developing a live-action spinoff series for Sonic’s newest onscreen co-star, Knuckles.
Brian Robbins, President and CEO of Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon, announced both projects during today’s Viacom Investor Event (via Collider). Robbins didn’t share any details about who might return for Sonic the Hedgehog 3. But presumably, Ben Schwartz will be back as the voice of Sonic alongside James Marsden’s Tom and Jim Carrey’s Dr. Robotnik. Director Jeff Fowler’s involvement remains unconfirmed, but it seems like he definitely wants the job. Shortly after Sonic 2’s first trailer premiered back in December, Fowler revealed that he was already coming up with ideas for a third installment.
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“We are delighted to announce that the third Sonic theatrical film and the first live action Sonic series for Paramount+ are being actively developed,” said Sega Corporation CEO Haruki Satomi in a new statement. “We’ve got a remarkable partnership with Paramount; and we are excited to continue expanding the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise with them. 2022 is shaping up to be a significant year for the franchise with the second film being released this April, as well as Sonic Frontiers, the highly anticipated video game title, coming this holiday. Sonic has been beloved by fans across the world for over 30 years; and we look forward to continuing to bring memorable moments and experiences to them for many years to come.”
Knuckles has long been a major fixture of Sega’s Sonic video games and will soon make his big-screen debut in Sonic 2, with Idris Elba providing his voice. Elba will also return to voice the character for Paramount+’s new spinoff, which will premiere sometime in 2023.
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 will hit theaters on April 8.
Are you happy to hear that a third Sonic film is in development? What are you hoping to see from a Knuckles spinoff series? Let us know in the comment section below!
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