Pacific Rim Reportedly Removed From Schedule, But Not Dead

According to The Hollywood Reporter's Borys Kit, Universal has removed the planned Pacific Rim sequel from its schedule, although the project is still expected to happen and is not cancelled.

This tracks with similar reports to come out in recent weeks, including comments from Guillermo del Toro, Pacific Rim's director, who is currently making the rounds promoting his new film Crimson Peak.

PACIFIC RIM officially off of Universal's calendar, "will be redated at a later time," studio says.

— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) September 29, 2015

Why? In order to "be the vanguard, fully-immersive experience the franchise deserves," the creative team needs time...

— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) September 29, 2015

to "continue in its efforts to exceed the amazing experience of the 1st film."

— Borys Kit (@Borys_Kit) September 29, 2015

Despite being beloved by fans, Pacific Rim was a disappointment at the U.S. box office and could have become a historical footnote if not for a strong overseas performance, and Legendary Pictures' divorce from Warner Bros., which left the Legendary wanting for their own franchises not tied to other companies' IP. When they headed to Universal, Legendary said they were still considering the options for Pacific Rim and eventually both a sequel and an animated series were said to be in development.