Michael B. Jordan is no stranger to comic book movies, having starred in both Black Panther, opposite of Chadwick Boseman, and in the less successful FANT4STIC as Johnny Storm. Now, the seasoned actor is taking the role of producer for the upcoming live-action film adaptation of the popular comic and animated series, Static Shock.
Back in August, during the DC Fandome event, it was announced that a Static Shock film was in-the-works, but not a lot of other details were shared. With no word on casting or who would be putting together this film, fans were equally excited as they were hoping for more information on the project. Now we know that Michael B. Jordan is attached with his production company along with producer Reginald Hudlin.
Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, Michael B. Jordan had this to say about his involvement along with his production company, Outlier Society being attached to the making of this movie:
“I’m proud to be a part of building a new universe centered around black superheroes; our community deserves that. Outlier Society is committed to bringing to life diverse comic book content across all platforms and we are excited to partner with Reggie and Warner Bros on this initial step.”
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Joining Jordan is fellow producer and comic writer Reginald Hudlin. Hudlin will not only serve as an additional producer of the film but is also aiding in relaunching Milestone Comics, the original company behind the release of the initial Static Shock issue no.1 back in 1993. After Milestone went under, Static Shock was picked up and made into the popular animated series we know and love today. Additionally, Hudlin is also working on a new Static Shock digital comic and a graphic novel with the former debuting early next year.
Hudlin had the following to say of the Static Shock film project:
“One of the things we’re really excited about, we really want to live up to the name of the company, Milestone Media. When we spoke to Jim [Lee] about reviving the Milestone line, we said ‘Look, we all know this has been a hit comic book and hit animated series. It’s time to expand back into all those areas and then some.’ So we’re in serious conversations about, as we’re launching the comic book series, developing the ‘Static Shock’ movie. That will be a theatrical feature film.”
Static Shock is in early pre-production now with no word on an estimated or target release date. Casting is not confirmed at this time, but earlier rumors began to circulate late last year regarding the possibility of Jaden Smith portraying the role of Virgil Hawkins, AKA Static Shock. No word on whether or not any official talks are happening regarding such casting.