The Den of Thieves franchise is preparing for its highly awaited third film, and O’Shea Jackson Jr. has publicized that his character, Donnie, will be going through a severe transformation.
During an interview with ScreenRant at the WWE 2K25 preview event, Jackson Jr. revealed that while the script has yet to be completed, the film has obtained the green light. He also teased his intentions for Donnie’s transformation, implying that audiences might not even realize it is him in the upcoming film.
O’Shea Jackson Jr. plans a complete character overhaul in the third installment of Den of Thieves
Jackson Jr., who has played the character of Donnie since the franchise’s debut, implied a chief change in his appearance and physicality for Den of Thieves 3. In the interview with ScreenRant, he stated:
"Well, right now, we just got the greenlight, so we don't even have the script yet. We're still working that out. I actually have to talk to Christian Gudegast the director and writer today about the direction of the third one but I'm going for a complete transformation.
The star added:
"For the last month or so, I've been on a bit of a fitness journey and I want Donnie to keep being a chameleon and we've seen him in two different ways now. Now, I kinda need to be unrecognizable. That's what I want for the third one and being around the WWE, you never know. I might want to recruit some people over here."
His explanations imply that Donnie, who is notorious for his skills to adjust and get the better of his enemies, will probably be seen as a character who is much more flushed out in the next film.
Given the ending of Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, where Donnie escapes the bars and associates himself with the criminal mastermind - the Octopus, his imminent change in his character arc could be an implication toward a more intended and physically striking rendition of Donnie’s character.
The future of Den of Thieves
The Den of Thieves franchise has gradually constructed a trustworthy fanbase, and Jackson Jr. has articulated his strong assurance to carry on the series. In an interview with Variety, he emphasized his commitment, stating:
“I’m not gonna sugarcoat it: I’m trying to Vin Diesel this thing. To quote Ryan Reynolds, I want to work with Gerard until he’s 90.”
He went on saying:
“I have such a family feel with these guys. I know how much I want to do these other films, but we cannot cheapen this beautiful thing that we made."
With Den of Thieves 3 now in development, the fans of the franchise can anticipate elevated action, influential character developments, and perhaps some unforeseen alliances.
Furthermore, Jackson Jr.’s enthusiasm for constructing Donnie to be “unrecognizable” enhances the eagerness, as the film looks to pull the franchise in an exhilarating new route.
Stay tuned to Soap Central for more information.
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