The Fast and Furious fandom is buzzing after Vin Diesel dropped a bombshell hint that Paul Walker’s character, Brian O’Conner, could return in the next film, tentatively titled Fast X: Part 2, due in April 2027. Walker, who passed away at 40 in a 2013 car accident in California, was a cornerstone of the franchise. His character appeared posthumously in Furious 7, with his brothers Cody and Caleb as stand-ins, and in Fast X via archival clips.
At a recent Fuel Fest event, Diesel got fans excited by sharing his demands for the upcoming movie. He told the studio he’d sign on for the 2027 release if they brought the story back to Los Angeles, leaned into street racing culture, and found a way to reunite his character, Dominic Toretto, with Brian O’Conner. The idea of seeing Dom and Brian together again has sparked a heated debate among fans.
On X, some fans are strongly against it. One wrote, “Let Paul rest in peace!” Another suggested casting Cody Walker as Brian instead of using CGI, saying it would feel more genuine. A third fan argued that Brian’s send-off in Furious 7, with the heartfelt “See You Again” playing, was perfect, and bringing him back could ruin that emotional closure.
Others are open to the idea, as long as it’s done with care. One fan said that if Walker’s family gives their blessing and the film uses a respectful approach like in Furious 7, it could be a beautiful way to include Brian in the franchise’s end. They called Walker’s death a tragedy but said his presence in the finale would honor his legacy.
The discussion follows Meadow Walker’s cameo in Fast X, which earned over $714 million globally. In an Instagram post, the 26-year-old shared how she grew up on Fast sets, watching her dad, Diesel, and co-stars like Jordana Brewster. She said joining the film was a special way to carry on her father’s legacy.
Diesel and Walker shared a brotherly bond, seen in a funny resurfaced video of Walker joking around in a bald cap, imitating Diesel on set. As Fast X: Part 2 looms, fans are split on whether Brian’s return will be a heartfelt nod or a risky move. Diesel’s tease has everyone wondering how the franchise will honor its fallen star.