Deadpool director Tim Miller has left the planned sequel due to “creative differences” with the film’s star, Ryan Reynolds.
Deadline reports that Miller’s departure was amicable, and that Fox will use him to direct the film adaptation of Daniel Suarez’s sci-fi thriller Influx.
Deadpool was the first full-length film directed by Miller, who had previously worked in video effects and on computer games. It was a surprise hit at the box office, grossing $782m worldwide on its $58m budget, partly thanks to its unusual viral marketing campaign.
Miller had reportedly not signed a contract to direct the sequel, but had been involved in developing it, including working on the script. Writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick are still attached to the project.
Reynolds first appeared as Deadpool in 2009’s X-Men Origins: Wolverine before getting his own standalone franchise. Reynolds also acted as producer on the first film and is expected to continue in that role for the sequel.
Deadpool 2 is scheduled for release on 12 January 2018.
