In a candid conversation, Keanu Reeves reflects on a decade-long journey as John Wick, the evolution of the assassin universe, and why passing the torch to Ana de Armas in Ballerina feels like a natural progression rather than an ending. Speaking from the same understated humility that has made him beloved worldwide, Reeves shares insights about legacy, collaboration, and the future of the franchise that redefined action cinema.
The Evolution of an Assassin Universe
When John Wick first appeared on screens in 2014, few could have predicted it would spawn a universe rich enough to support multiple films, television series, and now a full-fledged spinoff. Reeves credits the collaborative nature of the franchise for its organic growth.
"We never set out to create a universe. We just wanted to tell a good story about grief, loss, and what happens when you push someone too far. But Chad [Stahelski] and the writers created this world that felt lived-in, with rules and history. Once you have that foundation, other stories naturally emerge."
Working with Ana de Armas
Reeves' scenes with de Armas in Ballerina represent a symbolic passing of the torch within the narrative. Though he's careful not to reveal plot details, Reeves is effusive in his praise for his co-star's commitment and talent.
Keanu Reeves
John Wick
The legendary assassin who started it all. A man driven by love, loss, and an unwavering code of honor.
Ana de Armas
Eve Macarro
The ballerina-assassin seeking vengeance. Trained by the Ruska Roma, she represents the next evolution of the franchise.
The Art of Action
Reeves has become synonymous with a particular style of action filmmaking – one that prioritizes practical effects, extensive training, and what he calls "earned violence." He sees Ballerina as the perfect evolution of this philosophy.
"Ana trained for months to get the ballet-combat fusion right. She approached it the same way I approached gun-fu – with respect for the craft and commitment to authenticity. When you see her fight, you're seeing real skill, real preparation. That's what makes it believable."
The Philosophy of Violence
Throughout our conversation, Reeves returns to a theme that has defined the John Wick franchise: the idea that violence, while sometimes necessary, comes with a cost. This philosophical approach carries over into Ballerina's narrative.
"John's story has always been about the price of violence – what it takes from you, what it gives back. Eve's journey explores that same territory but from a different angle. She was raised in this world, shaped by it from childhood. Her relationship with violence is more complex, more intimate."
Legacy and Future
The Expanding Universe
With The Continental series already in development and other spinoffs being discussed, Reeves sees the John Wick universe entering a new phase of storytelling. Rather than viewing this expansion as diluting the brand, he sees it as validation of the world-building that began over a decade ago.
"We've always said this world was bigger than what we showed on screen. The Continental, the High Table, the Ruska Roma – they all have stories to tell. Ballerina proves that audiences are ready for those stories, and that there are incredibly talented people ready to tell them."
Advice for the Next Generation
When asked what advice he'd give to actors entering this universe, Reeves emphasizes preparation, respect for the craft, and understanding the emotional core beneath the action.
"Train hard, respect the stunt teams, and remember that all this action serves the story. The audience comes for the spectacle but stays for the characters. Ana understood that from day one. That's why she's perfect for this."
A Personal Reflection
As our conversation winds down, Reeves reflects on what the John Wick journey has meant to him personally. His characteristic thoughtfulness reveals itself as he considers the decade-plus journey from a simple revenge story to a sprawling universe.
"It's been a privilege to be part of something that resonated with people. But more than that, it's been about the collaboration – with Chad, with the stunt teams, with all the incredible actors who've joined this world. Now Ana gets to experience that, and I think she's going to love it."
Ballerina arrives in theaters on June 6, 2025, marking not an end but a bold new beginning for the assassin universe that Keanu Reeves helped create. With his blessing and Ana de Armas' fierce talent, the legacy of elegant violence continues to evolve, proving that some torches burn even brighter when passed to the next generation.