Will Smith Teases Zendaya’s Possible Role in ‘Hancock 2’ as Sequel Ideas Begin to Heat Up

The actor hints at a “really cool” idea for a follow-up to the 2008 superhero comedy, with Zendaya in talks for a key role

In an exciting revelation, Will Smith has shared a glimpse of the much-discussed sequel to the 2008 superhero hit “Hancock,” hinting at a potential role for Zendaya. The actor joined xQc’s Twitch livestream on Wednesday, where he teased the “really cool” ideas for “Hancock 2,” including Zendaya’s involvement in the project.

In a recent conversation on xQc’s Twitch livestream, Will Smith provided an intriguing update on the much-anticipated potential sequel to Hancock, the 2008 superhero film that blended comedy with an unlikely hero’s redemption story. While he didn’t give away too much, Smith did reveal a piece of exciting news: Zendaya is in talks for a role in Hancock 2.

The actor, who starred as the title character in the original film, teased that the idea for the sequel was “really cool” and noted that “Zendaya will be being approached” for the follow-up project. While details about her potential role remain under wraps, this revelation has fueled anticipation for the next chapter in the Hancock saga.

A Sequel Years in the Making

The first Hancock, directed by Peter Berg, introduced audiences to Smith’s portrayal of an unconventional superhero—one who was far from perfect. With a penchant for excessive drinking and a destructive approach to crime-fighting, Hancock (Smith) eventually learns to embrace his superhero abilities, aided by Charlize Theron’s Mary and Jason Bateman’s Ray. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, Hancock was a commercial success, grossing over $629 million globally.

Since then, a sequel has long been discussed, but various factors—scheduling conflicts, creative differences, and the ongoing evolution of the superhero genre—have delayed its progress. In a January 2012 interview with ComicBookMovie.com, Berg shared that the idea for a sequel had already been hashed out in discussions between himself, Smith, and producers Michael Mann and Akiva Goldman. Despite this, the project had stalled due to timing issues.

“We literally just have trouble getting into the same room at the same time,” Berg explained. However, he remained optimistic, stating, “I think it will happen, it’s just a question of timing.”

Will Zendaya Join the Hancock Universe?

Now, it seems the gears for Hancock 2 might finally be starting to turn. Smith’s comments about Zendaya’s involvement have reignited hopes of a return to the superhero franchise, with fans excited to see the Euphoria star join the ensemble cast. Known for her dramatic range and magnetic screen presence, Zendaya’s inclusion would certainly add a new dynamic to the sequel, though details about her character remain unclear.

Zendaya’s career has skyrocketed since her breakthrough role as Rue in HBO’s Euphoria, a role for which she received widespread critical acclaim. She’s also set to appear in Spider-Man: No Way Home and the upcoming Dune sequel, continuing to solidify her place in the Hollywood limelight. A role in Hancock 2 could open up new possibilities for her, offering a chance to branch into a more lighthearted, action-packed franchise.

Charlize Theron’s Return?

As the discussion around Hancock 2 continues to build, many are also wondering whether Charlize Theron, who played Hancock’s powerful ex-wife, Mary, will return for the sequel. Theron has expressed interest in reprising her role, even joking about the possibility of doing so “with our walkers” as the characters age.

“Let’s be superheroes with our walkers, you know,” Theron said in a June 2020 interview with ComicBook.com. “I’ll still make that movie, I would do it in a heartbeat.” While it remains unclear whether the actress will officially sign on, her enthusiasm for the project suggests that a return to the Hancock universe might not be out of the question.

A “Really Cool” Sequel in the Works

As fans eagerly await confirmation of Zendaya’s involvement and other details about the sequel, Will Smith’s comments have certainly sparked a renewed interest in Hancock 2. With a “really cool” concept in mind, the follow-up could explore new storylines and deepen the relationships between its beloved characters. The combination of Smith, Zendaya, and possibly Theron promises to deliver something unique—whether that’s a fresh comedic twist or an even more action-packed adventure.

While the project still seems to be in its early stages, there’s hope that Hancock 2 could finally make its way to the big screen, marking a return for the irreverent superhero who won over audiences nearly two decades ago. For now, fans will have to wait for more news, but with Zendaya potentially joining the cast, the sequel is already shaping up to be a must-watch.

Hancock 2 is still in development, with no official release date confirmed. Fans can only hope that Smith’s promise of a “really cool” idea will live up to the hype when it finally arrives.