In early 2020, Apple made headlines by securing the rights to Greyhound, the first film from Tom Hanks to be released directly on a streaming service. Now, Hanks is collaborating with Apple on a sequel.
The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in Greyhound ending up on Apple TV+. Originally planned for a theatrical release in May, the film was delayed to June due to lockdowns and social distancing measures. With theaters unlikely to reopen fully anytime soon, Sony Pictures decided to explore streaming options.
After a heated bidding war, Apple outbid Netflix and others, acquiring the film for around $70 million. Hanks, who was already working with Apple on Masters of the Air, had to approve the deal before it was final.
When Greyhound premiered on Apple TV+ in July 2020, it garnered a large audience, despite being an experiment. The success led Hanks to return to Apple TV+ in 2021 with Finch, and now a sequel to Greyhound is in the works.
The original Greyhound, written by Hanks, follows the story of George Krause, a Navy officer leading a convoy during the Battle of the Atlantic. The film is inspired by real events during World War II.
The new film, also written by Hanks, will see him reprise his role as Captain Krause, guiding the crew of the Greyhound from Normandy to the Pacific Ocean, playing a crucial role in the war.
The sequel, set in 1944, will likely align with key WWII events like D-Day and the Battle of Leyte Gulf. Director Aaron Schneider and producer Gary Goetzman are returning, with talks ongoing to bring back key cast members from the original film.
Filming is scheduled to begin in January 2026 in Sydney, Australia, with details on the release yet to be announced.
