Jason Momoa is no longer starring in Justin Lin’s upcoming Helldivers film, a live-action adaptation of Sony Pictures’ PlayStation video game franchise. The project is still moving forward as production searches for a new lead.
Gary Dauberman (It, Until Dawn) is writing the screenplay, and the film holds a November 10, 2027 theatrical release. Lin remains attached to direct, with Hutch Parker, Asad Qizilbash, and Lin producing.
Momoa’s exit was first reported by Deadline and later confirmed by other outlets. There is no reported reason for his departure, and Sony is now actively searching for a replacement lead actor.
For context, Helldivers is from Arrowhead Game Studios’ 2015 co-op shooter series, which expanded with Helldivers 2. The franchise has sold more than 12 million copies combined and centres on an elite military unit fighting to protect “Super Earth” from alien threats. It’s a setup built for large-scale sci-fi action, which is exactly what Sony is aiming to bring to cinemas.
The film’s announcement followed the breakout success of Helldivers 2 in 2024, part of Sony’s wider push to turn its gaming IP into screen adaptations. The company has already seen mixed but notable success with projects like Uncharted and The Last of Us.
For Justin Lin, best known for his work on the Fast & Furious franchise, the project remains part of his slate as development continues. Behind the scenes, Sony first teased the film at CinemaCon after its initial announcement at CES, signalling it remains a priority despite the casting change.
Momoa still has a packed schedule. He will appear as Lobo in Supergirl, plus other characters in Dune: Part Three, Street Fighter, and other upcoming projects stretching into 2027.
