Exclusive: Adam Wingard will not be returning for the sequel to ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’

Director Adam Wingard will not be returning for a third installment of the MonsterVerse movies, Godzilla and Kong, after directing the last two successful films. The decision to part ways is said to be amicable and due to timing issues, with the possibility of a future return still on the table.

Wingard recently directed and co-wrote “Godzilla x Kong: New Empire,” which has grossed over $564 million worldwide since its release. Despite expressing interest in telling more stories in the MonsterVerse, Wingard revealed a new original project titled “Onslaught” that he wanted to pursue before returning to the monster movies.

Legendary, the production company behind the MonsterVerse, has already hired a new writer to begin work on the next installment, signaling that Wingard’s return as director was uncertain. The decision to part ways was officially confirmed this week.

As Wingard leaves the franchise on a high note, with “Godzilla x Kong” set to become the highest-grossing film in the MonsterVerse series, Legendary will now be looking to start fresh for its next monster movie. It is unclear whether they will continue to explore concepts introduced by Wingard, such as Hollow Earth and new characters.

Wingard’s initial entry into the MonsterVerse, “Godzilla vs Kong,” was released during the pandemic and still managed to be a box office success, credited with helping to revive the theatrical industry during challenging times. With his departure, fans will be eager to see what new projects Wingard takes on next.