The highly anticipated sequel to *The Social Network* might have found its new Mark Zuckerberg in method acting powerhouse Jeremy Strong.
A New Face for Facebook’s Founder?
Fans of the acclaimed 2010 film *The Social Network* have been eagerly awaiting news on its sequel, and it seems development is progressing rapidly. One significant change reported is that Jesse Eisenberg, who brilliantly portrayed Mark Zuckerberg in the original, is unlikely to return for the follow-up.
However, insiders suggest that writer-director Aaron Sorkin has a compelling new candidate in mind: Jeremy Strong. Best known for his Emmy-winning role as Kendall Roy in HBO’s *Succession*, Strong is reportedly a serious contender for the pivotal role.
The casting discussions extend beyond Zuckerberg. Mikey Madison is reportedly in talks to play Frances Haugen, the whistleblower who brought forth the “Facebook Files.” Additionally, Jeremy Allen White of *The Bear* is rumored to be considered for Jeff Horwitz, the *Wall Street Journal* reporter who broke the explosive story.
While Strong is a strong frontrunner for Zuckerberg, there are also whispers he might be considered for a different role, possibly a *Wall Street Journal* editor, but nothing is finalized yet.
The Method Behind the Madness
Jeremy Strong has earned a reputation as one of the most intense method actors of his generation. His dedication to inhabiting his characters is legendary, with *Succession* co-stars noting he often remained in character even off-camera.
This deep dive into roles, which has garnered him numerous awards and nominations, is reportedly exactly the kind of intensity Sorkin is seeking for the sequel. Unlike the first film, which explored Facebook’s explosive rise, the new story delves into much darker, more complex corporate and political territory.
Diving into Facebook’s Darker Chapters
The sequel promises to pick up where the original left off, shifting its focus from global expansion to Facebook’s more controversial era. The film is said to be based on the 2021 expose, “The Facebook Files.”
This new narrative will explore allegations that the company disregarded its own research regarding harm to teenagers, facilitated the spread of misinformation, and even played a role in events like the January 6 riot. Sorkin himself was reportedly inspired to tackle the project after the riot, believing Facebook held significant influence behind the scenes.
Production on the Fast Track
Aaron Sorkin is set to both write and direct this highly anticipated follow-up, with Sony Pictures reportedly backing the project. While no official release date or final cast announcements have been made, the film is considered a top priority for the studio.
Producers Todd Black, Stuart Besser, and Peter Rice are reportedly in the process of finalizing the package with Sony for a greenlight. The stage is set for a gripping new chapter in the story of the social media giant.
- Jeremy Strong is a top contender to play Mark Zuckerberg in *The Social Network* sequel.
- Jesse Eisenberg is reportedly not returning for the role.
- The film will focus on Facebook’s controversies, including the “Facebook Files” expose and the January 6 riot.
- Aaron Sorkin is writing and directing the sequel, with Sony backing the project.
As the project moves forward, all eyes will be on who ultimately secures these pivotal roles in telling the next chapter of Facebook’s complicated history.
