Fede Alvarez addresses why he's not directing Alien: Romulus 2

Why is Fede Alvarez no longer directing the Alien: Romulus sequel? Well, according to him, he says there never were any plans for him to do so in the first place! Speaking at the event HorrorBound Weekend, Alvarez and Alien: Romulus co-writer Rodo Sayagues addressed the fact Fede was not returning to direct, but rather always intended to stay on board to pen the script:

I dont think I was ever going to. We always knew right when we finished – this is one of those things where you come in and you do one, and get out. Cameron, Fincher… all those directors I love, they went and did one. Obviously Ridley created it, he has the right to make a bunch of them.

We did want to write it. Honestly it’s because we love the characters we created so we want to make sure no one kills them right at the beginning of the next one. They went and killed Hicks and Newt just like that, hey let’s not let that happen. We wrote it and made sure they stayed alive, and now we can let someone else make it.

Early on, it was suggested Andy and Rain would play a pivotal role in the sequel, with the story picking up from where Romulus left off. Alvarez had teased, the Alien: Romulus sequel would also take the franchise into uncharted territory.

However, despite Fede's most recent comments suggesting he never intended to direct then next Alien film, back in February of this year he had a different tune. Speaking to Collider at the time, Alvarez very clearly expressed plans of shooting that film in the Fall (next month):

When asked about his return to the universe of the Xenomorphs, the Evil Dead helmer teased that another Alien project was just around the corner, revealing that he is already “writing it.” And, if there were worries about where the title would fall on Álvarez’s directing schedule, he assuaged the fears of fans by telling them, “I think the sequel is my next movie.” As for when cameras might pick up on the feature, Álvarez continued, “It’s a good question. I hope I can shoot it this year,” before turning to Macarin and Barbra to ask, “If you guys are available. [Laughs]”

This suggests something happened since February and now to have shifted that sentiment. Alvarez seemed quite eager and excited to shoot the Romulus sequel half a year ago, but now his demeanor seems more casual and nonchalant about the duty. Given his intense passion for the last film and excitement to have been involved directing the sequel previously, still begs the question – what really happened?

Regardless, Alien: Romulus 2 is expected to film this Fall (originally starting next month – October 2025), but now that a director needs to be found, production may be pushed back a little.

As more news surfaces, we'll keep you well informed! Thanks to our friends at AvPGalaxy for the heads up!