Why Michael Caine Is Coming Out of Retirement for 'The Last Witch Hunter 2' Actorsvaultpro

Despite the original film being a box office and critical flop, Lionsgate announced this week that it is moving forward with a sequel to 2015’s The Last Witch Hunter. That news alone was enough to raise a few eyebrows, but, perhaps even more surprisingly, it was reported that Hollywood legend Michael Caine is eyeing a return to acting to star in the feature opposite his pal, Vin Diesel. The 92-year-old screen icon famously announced his retirement in 2023, but now, two years later, he could be preparing to step back into the spotlight again.

Caine hung up his proverbial hat following his role in Oliver Parker’s The Great Escaper, marking the end of a much-celebrated career, which saw him deliver memorable performances in major movies such as The Dark Knight, The Prestige, and The Cider House Rules. However, it seems that the actor is considering coming out of retirement to reprise his role as Dolan, the priest aide to Diesel’s warrior Kaulder, in The Last Witch Hunter 2. So why this film, and why now? Adam Fogelsen, chair of Lionsgate’s Motion Picture Group, offered an explanation as to why the studio had greenlit a sequel to a decade-old film, which may also provide some insight into what is attracting Caine to the project. He said in a statement, per Deadline:

“The Last Witch Hunter has grown since its theatrical release into a global fan favorite, with audiences continuing to discover and rewatch it across every platform over the past decade. That enduring enthusiasm made clear there is an appetite for more stories set in this world. Vin and I have partnered many times over the years, and he is a true force in our industry. I’m thrilled to be reuniting with him as he returns to this iconic role, and excited by how advancements in filmmaking technology now allow us to economically deliver a sequel on an even more ambitious scale.”

The Last Witch Hunter grossed $27 million in North America, and even with its $140 million worldwide total, which was boosted by Diesel’s popularity in international markets, the film was considered a box office disappointment against its high production costs and poor domestic performance. It also received largely negative reviews, earning a lackluster 18% critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes (and a marginally better 44% audience rating). However, the fantasy action epic re-emerged as a streaming hit this year when it found a new home – and renewed interest – on Netflix, which, in part, led to the sequel’s development. A deal with Caine hasn’t yet been finalized, but he is reportedly attached to reprise his role in the follow-up.