Will Smith Drops Out of Action-Thriller “Sugar Bandits” – What’s Next for the Film?

Will Smith’s sudden departure from the highly anticipated action-thriller “Sugar Bandits” has left the production in a precarious position. The $80 million film, which had garnered significant backing from distributors due to Smith’s involvement, is now without its headline star due to alleged scheduling conflicts.

Smith, who will remain attached to the project as a producer through his production company Westbrook, has left big shoes to fill for the filmmakers. With filming scheduled to begin soon and a 2025 release date in mind, finding a replacement actor with the same star power is now a top priority.

Directed by Stefano Sollima and based on Chuck Hogan’s novel “Devils in Exile,” “Sugar Bandits” follows a former special forces soldier leading a team of vigilantes to take down Boston’s drug trade. Hogan is also attached as the film’s screenwriter.

Deadline Hollywood reported that Smith’s departure has thrown a major wrench into the film’s production schedule, leading distributors to potentially reevaluate their commitment. The success of the film now hinges on finding a new lead actor who can meet the high expectations set by Smith’s involvement.

As fans eagerly await updates on the casting of the new lead, the future of “Sugar Bandits” remains uncertain. Will a new actor be able to step into the role and deliver the same level of excitement and anticipation that Smith brought to the project? Only time will tell.