The world rejoiced when news hit that actressHayley Atwellwasjoining theMission: Impossiblefranchiselast week, but now theCaptain America: The First Avengerstar has confirmed that she’ll be inbothupcomingMissionsequels. Paramount Pictures signedRogue NationandFalloutwriter/directorChristopher McQuarrieto return for bothMission: Impossible 7andMission: Impossible 8, to be shot back-to-back, so it was unclear if Atwell’s commitment would be for just one or both films.
Luckily, Atwell took to Instagram to express her enthusiasm regarding the news, and confirmed that she’ll be in both movies. Moreover, she describes her role as “the female lead,” so this isn’t just some supporting turn. That raises some questions regarding Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson), who was the female lead in bothRogue NationandFalloutand is returning for theMissionsequels. Will she be killed off mid-movie, or is Ilsa more of a supporting character this time around? Since her debut inRogue NationIlsa’s allegiances have always been murky at best, but her connection withTom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt is undeniably compelling.
But of course, there’s room for as many female leads inMission 7and8as McQuarrie and Cruise concoct.Vanessa Kirbywas a wonderful addition toFalloutas White Widow, andAngela Bassettmade a terrific new IMF director. It’s unconfirmed if one or both of them will be back, but here’s hoping. One imaginesMichelle Monaghanis done, as it was nice to see the Ethan/Julie relationship finally find closure at the end ofFalloutwith Monaghan’s emotional return.
Plot details for the next twoMissionmovies are under wraps, but McQuarrie is toiling away as Cruise sees to the post-production ofTop Gun: Maverick. Filming onMission: Impossible 7and8is expected to get underway next year, so look for more casting news in the coming months. For now, check out Atwell’s Instagram note below, along with a storyboard tease from McQuarrie.
