Lionsgate greenlights animated John Wick prequel with Keanu Reeves returning

Lionsgate has greenlit its animated John Wick prequel, with Keanu Reeves signing a deal to reprise the role. Deadline’s Jill Goldsmith reported the studio’s announcement on Nov. 5, 2026.

The greenlight follows an earlier announcement in 2025 by Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. This is a new step for a previously announced project, rather than the first reveal of an animated Wick film.

The story takes place before the original John Wick and follows his Impossible Task. As Deadline describes the announced premise, Wick undertakes it to free himself from his obligation to the High Table and earn the right to be with Helen, the love of his life.

Shannon Tindle will direct, with Ryan and Kaz Firpo writing the project. Reeves will also produce alongside Thunder Road’s Basil Iwanyk and Erica Lee and 87Eleven Entertainment’s Chad Stahelski, with Point Grey joining the producing team.

The film is in preproduction, Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer noted in comments after quarterly earnings, according to Deadline’s report.