It was reported back in April that Universal was interested in getting Eva Mendes to reprise the role of agent Monica Fuentes in the upcoming Fast & Furious 8, and now it appears that the star’s involvement is almost a done deal. A source close to the production tells We Got This Covered that the current plot of the eighth film actually hinges on her character, who played a significant role in 2 Fast 2 Furious and cameoed in Fast Five, and it’s pretty much a sure thing that Mendes will sign on.
Our source asked to remain anonymous, and their connection to the project is solid enough that we feel comfortable respecting that. They say that Fuentes will be teaming up with Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel), Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) and the rest of the gang to take on a new villain in the Big Apple. Additionally, conversations about Helen Mirren and Jason Statham both playing villainous roles in the pic, are still taking place, with the latter reprising the role of Deckard Shaw from Furious 7. Our source wouldn’t confirm that either is definitely signed on, but that their names are still coming up as the octoquel continues to develop does lend validity to the possibility of their involvement.
As for newcomers to the franchise, Universal is apparently looking to cast a young Hispanic actor in the role of a racer with a close relationship to Fuentes. Tommy Hatto was at one point in consideration for that part, though it’s unclear if he still is. That young actor hasn’t done much, but he had a small part in Thor: The Dark World and previously worked with Mendes when he auditioned for the lead role in How to Catch a Monster. He was also on the red carpet at the premiere of Fast & Furious 6, though he was not involved with that film. Our source says that his name has come up more than once, but Universal hasn’t locked down anyone for the part he’s being considered for.
At this point, only Diesel, Johnson, Michelle Rodriguez and Tyrese Gibson are absolutely certain to reprise their roles. But with the story taking shape around Fuentes, it’s great to hear that the actress is on the cusp of signing on, if she hasn’t already.
Fast & Furious 8 is still a while off – in the wake of record-smashing numbers for Furious 7, Universal and the cast and crew took a well-earned victory lap, and they’re only now hashing out the story for the next installment with an eye to have it into theaters on April 14, 2017. As always, we’ll keep you posted as we learn more.