'Divergent Series: Ascendant' cast, latest news: Is Lionsgate cancelling the sequel due to budget constraints?
Rumors of a cancellation are still haunting the "Divergent Series: Ascendant" after its predecessor "Divergent Series: Allegiant," which was released early this year, did not generate as much sales as its film executives hoped. Speculations suggest that Lionsgate might instead push for a TV project instead of another film to conclude the series as a result of budget constraints.
Some reports reveal that the possibility of a TV project for the final installment on the series disappointed cast members Shailene Woodley who plays Beatrice "Tris" Prior, Theo James who portrays Tobias Eaton/Four, and Miles Teller who plays Peter. In effect, the original cast members have reportedly backed out from the "Divergent" project.
Other rumors regarding the sequel's delay are due to the unresolved conflict between the series' lead cast members Woodley and James. The onscreen lovers reportedly had a fight regarding James' fiancé Ruth Kearney. Kearney is allegedly unhappy about how close James and Woodley have become over the years due to their roles in the "Divergent" series. As a result, Kearney is reportedly begging James to give up his role in the fourth installment and focus on their wedding preparations.
Some reports hint that James may not reprise his role as the 31-year-old British actor wants to concentrate on promoting his recent film, "Underworld: Blood Wars," where he stars alongside Kate Beckinsale. However, it is believed that the rumors are purposely put out to stir interest about the upcoming sequel and hopefully attract viewers and fans anew.
Meanwhile, there is still hope for "Divergent" fans who wish to see the series come to a graceful ending. Veronica Roth, author of the "Divergent" series, recently revealed on her social media account that she came up with an epilogue titled "We Can Be Mended" that tells what happens to Four after the death of Tris, according to MTV. The epilogue is set five years after Tris' death.
"I've always said that the 'Divergent' series felt complete to me, but a little while ago I realized there was still some of the story that I had left untold," the author said. "So I wrote something just for myself about what Tobias had been up to."
There are no updates yet as to when the movie or TV version will be released. Movie executives have yet to reveal when the sequel will start filming.