After nearly a year of uncertainty, back in February we finally received confirmation that Pacific Rim 2 was moving forward at Legendary Pictures and Universal. There was just one catch: Guillermo del Toro would not be directing and instead Daredevil showrunner Steven S. DeKnight would be taking his place behind the camera. Since then, one of the other things that fans have been wondering is whether any of the original cast members might be returning. Del Toro has certainly hinted that this would be the case, although as of yet, nothing has been officially confirmed. Now this week they have announced that a new face has joined the cast of Pacific Rim 2, and it happens to be someone who has helped reboot an even bigger sci-fi franchise: Star Wars: The Force Awakens star John Boyega. Guillermo del Toro had this to say about the announcement:

“I am very proud and happy to welcome John into a fantastic sandbox. The Pacific Rim universe will be reinforced with him as a leading man as it continues to be a multicultural, multi-layered world. ‘The World saving the world’ was our goal and I couldn’t think of a better man for the job.”

Boyega will apparently be playing the son of Idris Elba’s character, Stacker Pentecost, who is not expected to return for somewhat obvious reasons. His character is being described as the film’s lead, which is now fueling speculation that Charlie Hunnam will have a smaller role or none at all. Either way, I think we can all agree that Boyega’s casting is good news and will certainly help the film’s commercial prospects. If he brings even half of the enthusiasm that he brought to Star Wars, the movie will be better for it. Are you excited to see John Boyega pilot a Jaeger in Pacific Rim 2?