After 13 years and 7 films together, it’s no surprise that the Fast and Furious cast members had become more like family than co-workers. And more than the women and the cars, it was that chemistry and family attitude that made the movie so magnetic
So, when Paul Walker tragically passed in a car accident in November of last year, it was no surprise that the entire cast was devastated. Of course, no one felt the pain more than co-star Vin Diesel. Over the years, he had become like a brother to Walker, often having dinner with his family.
In a recent Facebook post, Diesel said, “When I heard the news, I left the production, grabbed a plane and took my family and Michelle [Rodriguez] back to L.A. … [We] drove directly to his parent’s house. His Father said, ‘Paul loved you Vin’… I awkwardly and nervously said, aw come on… then he said… you don’t have to get along every second to love each other… so true.”
With all of the pain and grief, everyone was left wondering if the franchise would continue on. After all, the family was now broken.
Well, producers have found a way to keep it all in the family.
Having already filmed half of the movie, Paul Walker’s role will be kept in the film, while his two brothers, Caleb and Cody, will fill in for any needed scenes.
In a released statement, filmmakers say, “Paul had already shot his dramatic scenes and most of his action for FAST & FURIOUS 7, and it’s among the strongest work of his career. We have resumed shooting and now welcome Paul’s brothers, Caleb and Cody, into our FAST family. Caleb and Cody are helping us complete some remaining action for their brother and fill in small gaps left in production. Having them on set has made us all feel that Paul is with us too.”
As well as filling in as doubles, the brothers will also lend voice work to the production. Directors have already been at work using both voices to fill in the gaps. According to TMZ, “The production team tested the voice of each brother and learned that certain words sound better coming from one brother, and different ones from the other.”
As far as Walker’s character goes, there have already been rumors leaking that he and his on-screen family will be sent off happily into the sunset after he decides to get out of the game after an early dispute with the new Jason Statham character. Based on all of the reports coming from the Fast and Furious camps, it seems that they are handling the difficult circumstances with class and giving Walker the respect that he deserves. But I guess that’s not too surprising; after all, he is family.
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