Tom Hanks is set to reprise his role as Captain Ernest Krause in a forthcoming sequel to the 2020 World War II film Greyhound, with production slated to commence in early 2026. This new installment, a collaboration between Apple Original Films and Hanks’ production company, Playtone, will be directed by Aaron Schneider, who helmed the original film. Hanks is not only returning as the lead actor but is also penning the screenplay for the sequel.
The original Greyhound, based on C.S. Forester’s novel The Good Shepherd, debuted on Apple TV+ in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The film follows Captain Krause, a newly promoted U.S. Navy commander, as he leads an Allied convoy across the treacherous North Atlantic while being pursued by German U-boats. Despite its modest budget, the film was lauded for its tight pacing and immersive naval combat sequences.
The upcoming sequel aims to expand the narrative beyond the Atlantic theater, delving into pivotal events such as the D-Day invasion and battles in the Pacific. This broader scope will provide audiences with a more comprehensive portrayal of World War II’s multifaceted conflicts.
Filming is scheduled to begin in Sydney, Australia, in January 2026. This decision has sparked criticism from U.S. industry advocates who express concerns about the ongoing trend of outsourcing production jobs, especially as the domestic film industry continues to recover from recent labor strikes.
Apple has yet to announce a release date for the sequel, but given the production timeline, a 2027 premiere is anticipated. Discussions are reportedly underway to bring back key supporting cast members from the original film, including Stephen Graham, who has recently received acclaim for his performance in the Netflix film Adolescence.
This project adds to Apple’s growing portfolio of World War II-themed content produced in collaboration with Playtone, including the critically acclaimed limited series Masters of the Air. This series, which follows the American bomber boys during the war, further solidifies Apple’s commitment to delivering high-quality historical dramas to its global audience.
