12 Unexpected Movie Sequels You Didn't Know Are Happening

9. Coming 2 America

Why It's Unexpected

Because the original Eddie Murphy-starring comedy about an African Prince who secretly travels to New York in search of a wife came out over 30 years ago, and as successful as it was - grossing $288.7 million worldwide - hasn't Murphy's box office appeal basically dried up at this point?

Murphy's last live-action hit was 2007's Razzie-winning Norbit, which in conjunction with the original movie's fairly tidy ending, doesn't exactly make Coming to America 2 the most natural of nostalgia-driven sequels.

What We Know

In early 2017, word emerged that a sequel was in the early stages of development with original screenwriters David Sheffield and Barry W. Blaustein back to pen the follow-up, but with Murphy's involvement still in question, things went quiet for almost two years.

In January, Murphy was confirmed to appear in the film, with Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow) set to direct, while supporting cast members Arsenio Hall, Shari Headley, John Amos and James Earl Jones were all expected to return.

The plot is said to revolve around Prince Akeem seeking out his long lost son, while battling a villainous general who - get this - will also be played by Murphy himself.

Between Oscar-winning Black Panther costume designer Ruth E. Carter recently being hired for the film and an August 7, 2020 release date now confirmed, it appears that production is likely to ramp up in the coming months.