Vin Diesel has sent shockwaves through the Fast and Furious community by suggesting that Paul Walker’s character, Brian O’Conner, might appear in the upcoming film, tentatively called Fast X: Part 2, set for April 2027. Walker, who died at 40 in a 2013 car crash in California, was a beloved part of the franchise. His character lived on in Furious 7, with his brothers Cody and Caleb filling in, and in Fast X through old footage.
At Fuel Fest, Diesel shared his vision for the next high-speed adventure. He told the studio he’d agree to the 2027 release if they met three conditions: return the story to Los Angeles, focus on street racing, and bring back the iconic duo of Dominic Toretto and Brian O’Conner. The crowd cheered, but fans online are split on whether Brian’s return is a good idea.
Some fans are upset, feeling it’s disrespectful to Walker’s memory. One posted on X, “Why not let him rest in peace?” Another suggested casting Cody Walker as Brian instead of using CGI, arguing it would feel more real. A third fan said Brian’s goodbye in Furious 7, set to “See You Again,” was a perfect ending, and reviving him risks cheapening that moment.
On the other side, some fans support the idea if it’s handled with care. One wrote that with the Walker family’s approval and a sensitive approach like in Furious 7, Brian’s return could be a fitting tribute. They called Walker’s death a tragedy but said including him in the franchise’s finale feels like a way to honor his legacy.
The debate comes after Meadow Walker’s cameo as a flight attendant in Fast X, which grossed over $714 million worldwide. In an Instagram post, the 26-year-old shared how she grew up on Fast sets, watching her dad, Diesel, and stars like Michelle Rodriguez. She said being in the film was a special way to keep her father’s legacy alive.
Diesel and Walker were like family, a bond clear in a fun old clip of Walker wearing a bald cap to mimic Diesel on set. As fans await Fast X: Part 2, they’re divided on whether Brian’s return will be a touching tribute or a mistake. Diesel’s hint has sparked a passionate debate about honoring a lost legend.
