Ballerina, a John Wick spinoff, is set between the events of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum and John Wick: Chapter 4. The movie follows Ana de Armas as Rooney, a ballerina assassin seeking revenge for the murder of her family. The film features cameo appearances from various John Wick characters, including Keanu Reeves as John Wick himself.

Extended Cameo Of John Wick

According to producer Erica Lee, John Wick’s cameo in Ballerina will be an extended one, suggesting a decently-sized role in the movie. The team had hoped Keanu Reeves would appear in the film, but the timeline was a challenge since John Wick had died in the fourth chapter. The decision was made to include his character, as it would make sense chronologically and also offer insights into John’s past with the Ruska Roma, who trained him.

Other Cameos

Lance Reddick‘s Charon and Ian McShane’s Winston will also make cameo appearances, although they won’t be in the film for long. Their presence indicates that Rooney will visit the Continental at some point in the movie. The cameos will also help fill the gaps regarding what the pair was doing before the events of John Wick: Chapter 4.

Importance Of The Director’s Return

Anjelica Huston’s return as The Director hints at her playing an important role in Ballerina. Her pledge of fealty to the High Table following the Adjudicator’s visit in John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum could tie into Rooney’s decision to seek revenge for her family’s murder. However, as little information is available, it is mere speculation at this point.

Erica Lee’s comments suggest that the John Wick universe cameos in Ballerina will be used to establish the film in the John Wick universe. The presence of various characters will help fill in gaps regarding the story and offer insights into the past. Although the cameos remain shrouded in mystery, Ballerina will have enough John Wick characters to firmly plant it into the universe.