'No, It Wasn't My Decision': When Derek Kolstad split from John Wick 4 and 5

Derek Kolstad, the mastermind behind the bullet-ridden world of "John Wick," has dramatically announced his departure from the franchise's upcoming sequels, John Wick 4 and John Wick 5. Echoing the sentiments of many a Hollywood departure, Kolstad admitted that this career-changing decision was not his choice.

"No, It Wasn't My Decision"

While the thrill-packed universe of "John Wick" prepares for two more sequels, it appears that the upcoming installments will proceed without their original scribe. "No, it wasn't my decision," Kolstad confessed in an interview with Collider, as reported by IGN in March 2021. Shedding light on the behind-the-scenes machinations, he added, "When you think of the contractually of these things, the third one I shared the credit with any number of people, they didn't have to come back to me, and so they didn't."

"I'm Still Rooting For Chad"

Despite the sudden and unexpected parting, the series creator harbors no ill feelings towards the remaining crew, expressing support for series director Chad Stahelski and co-director David Leitch. "I'm still rooting for Chad [Stahelski]," he stated, continuing, "I just believe that you bless everything and hope it all the best."

Kolstad, whilst stepping back from the adrenaline-fueled world of John Wick, is far from being idle. The talented screenwriter is currently working on the adaptation of the action-horror manga Hellsing for Amazon Studios, describing it as a "dream project." He is also the sole writer of the Bob Odenkirk starrer action movie "Nobody."

As the cinematic world of assassins prepares for a future without its original creator, fans can only hope that the upcoming sequels will live up to their lofty expectations. After all, as Kolstad himself has expressed, "I want this thing to survive and thrive."

(Several parts of the text in this article, including the title, were generated with the help of an AI tool.)