Hobbs & Shaw introduced A-list actor Ryan Reynolds into the Fast & Furious franchise, but his role should grow beyond a short cameo. The 2019 action-comedy, starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and Jason Statham reprising their respective Fast & Furious roles, served as the franchise's first official spinoff. While the movie featured a few noteworthy cameos, Reynolds' appearance was the most pleasant surprise. Based on his chemistry working alongside Johnson's Luke Hobbs, there's reason to believe the actor would thrive in a Fast & Furious spinoff.
In Hobbs & Shaw, Reynolds played the role of Victor Locke, a CIA agent who once worked alongside Hobbs during his time with the DSS. Locke adored Hobbs, so much so that his friendship with the man became obsessive. He even got tattoos that intentionally mirrored those on Hobb's body. When MI6 targeted Hattie Shaw in connection to a deadly virus known as "The Snowflake," Locke was sent to recruit Hobbs for the mission. He tracked Hobbs down at a diner — much to the agent's dismay. Locke ended up assisting in keeping Hobbs' daughter safe, but it was obvious that Hobbs had no interest in teaming up with the CIA agent in the future.
It's possible that Hobbs will return back to the primary saga within the Fast & Furious franchise seeing as it will officially come to a close with a tenth and eleventh installment. Despite the impending conclusion, Universal Studios has plans to continue building the franchise with future spinoffs. It was insinuated that Reynolds briefly appeared in Hobbs & Shaw because it was directed by David Leitch. The director, of course, was at the helm of Deadpool 2, the hit sequel starring Reynolds in the titular role as the Marvel superhero. Reynolds also has a connection to Johnson while working on the upcoming Netflix film, Red Notice, which will also star Fast & Furious vet, Gal Gadot. Seeing as Universal has plans for more sequels, including another Hobbs & Shaw installment, it would be smart to bring back Reynolds in an expanded role.
Another Fast & Furious Spinoff Can Pay Off From Ryan Reynolds' Involvement
With the main Fast & Furious storyline ending, the franchise will need to look at other avenues to keep the series fresh and interesting. They could build on existing characters or bring in new faces. Not only was Reynolds already introduced into the fictional universe, but he can be a popular figure that revitalizes the film series. He's a very likable actor that has box office pull when it comes to action and comedy. By portraying Locke in just a handful of scenes, he proved that he has the banter and antics necessary for some type of action-comedy spinoff. His involvement would also bring new blood into the fold with his CIA connections.
Other than his history as a CIA agent and his love of Game of Thrones, not much was revealed about Locke. Having Reynolds return for future spinoffs can further explain his character while expanding his on-screen presence. Whether he works alongside Hobbs or gets paired with another Hobbs & Shaw side character like Kevin Hart's role as Air Marshal Dinkley, Fast & Furious can greatly benefit from more Reynolds as the franchise turns the page on a new chapter.
