Olivia Wilde Pursues Fast and Furious Directing Role

Olivia Wilde stated on Sunday that she is actively seeking a directing role in the Fast and Furious franchise. The filmmaker made the comments during a conversation at the British Film Institute on London’s Southbank.

Wilde, 42, discussed her influences for her 2022 thriller Don’t Worry Darling. She noted that her passion for automobiles influences her work. "The car chases were fun as I love cars and would be very happy just shooting car chases forever," she told the audience.

She specifically cited the desire to direct a hypothetical future installment of the series. "I’m really trying to get a job directing, like, The Fast and the Furious 25, just because I don’t think you need plot, you just get to drag and crash cars. I can’t imagine a better job!" she said.

Wilde returned to the topic during the question and answer portion of the evening. She indicated an interest in returning to the psychological thriller genre. She also reiterated her interest in the action series. "I mean, Fast and the Furious! I really think, just give me a chance and I can do it! I really believe in it," she said.

The Fast and Furious franchise currently includes 10 main series films and one spin-off. Studios are preparing a twelfth film as the first entry in a potential three-part conclusion. Previous directors for the series include Justin Lin, Rob Cohen, and Louis Leterrier. Key cast members include Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Michelle Rodriguez, Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, and Gal Gadot.

Wilde is currently shooting Christmas, a comedy she described as a tribute to Rob Reiner, in London. In 2026, she also directed and starred in The Invite. Critics have praised that film, with some calling it her best work to date. She also acted in Gregg Araki’s I Want Your Sex and Tony Gilroy’s Behemoth!

Regarding her career shift, Wilde said she now focuses on the creative experience rather than the outcome. "I feel like the shift that I made was to focus entirely on the experience I wanted to have, without any expectation or self-consciousness or fear of result," she explained. She added that this approach led to the creation of The Invite.

Wilde noted that she did not originally plan to direct herself in The Invite. The cast, which includes Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton, convinced her to take on the role of Angela. "I was terrified and kind of mortified by it," she said. She added that being in the film allowed her to witness the acting process from the inside.