Jon Watts Drops Wolfs Sequel After Apple Shifts Release Strategy

Jon Watts, the filmmaker behind Wolfs starring George Clooney and Brad Pitt, has revealed he won't be returning for a sequel to the hit film, despite its success on Apple TV+. In an exclusive statement to Deadline, Watts explained that while Apple was initially enthusiastic about the film and had even asked him to start writing a follow-up, a last-minute shift in the movie's release plan left him feeling blindsided. Apple had originally promised a wide theatrical release but ultimately decided on a limited theater run followed by a quick transition to streaming.

Watts said that the change in release strategy was made without any prior discussion, and he was only informed about it days before it was publicly announced. He also expressed frustration that Apple included the sequel announcement in their press release, despite his request not to do so. In response, Watts returned the money Apple had given him for the sequel, stating he no longer trusted the company as a creative partner.

While no official comment has been made by Apple, sources close to the company maintain that Wolfs was a success and that they are still open to a potential sequel. Despite the challenges, Watts made it clear he would be open to collaborating again with the star-studded cast, which included Amy, Austin, Poorna, and Zlatko, should the opportunity arise.