In the wake of actor Paul Walker's death, various reports rumored the latest "Fast & Furious" installment would be halted, and while that appears to be just the case, it looks production on the movie will find a way to push forward.
Universal Pictures released a statement to Us Weekly Wednesday about a shift in its priorities and plans in the aftermath of the tragic loss of the 40-year-old Hollywood actor.
"Right now, all of us at Universal are dedicated to providing support to Paul's immediate family and our extended "Fast & Furious" family of cast, crew and filmmakers. At this time we feel it is our responsibility to shut down production on 'Fast & Furious 7' for a period of time so we can assess all options available to move forward with the franchise," the film studio said.
"We are committed to keeping 'Fast & Furious' fans informed, and we will provide further information to them when we have it. Until then, we know they join us in mourning the passing of our dear friend Paul Walker."
However, despite the loss of one of the film's lead stars, fans of the franchise have good reason to look forward to another sequel to the popular race car-themed film series.
While leaving the LAX airport, the Malaysian-Australian helmer, who also directed "The Conjuring," replied "Yes" when asked by TMZ whether production work on the seventh installment he inherited from Justin Lin, who directed many of the previous "Fast & Furious" films, will continue.
When asked how the cast and crew of the film are holding up, Wan replied that they are "very sad... and pretty somber," but he added that the cast and crew "are all dealing with it."
"Fast & Furious 7" was originally slated for a July 11 release, according to the Daily Mail. With Walker's passing, the launch date may be pushed further. The studio has yet to announce a new release date.
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