Breaking: Sylvester Stallone Exits 'Cliffhanger 2', Pierce Brosnan Steps In

In a surprising turn of events, Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone has stepped away from the highly anticipated sequel to his 1993 action thriller "Cliffhanger." The project, which was announced roughly 18 months ago, is undergoing a significant creative transformation with former James Bond star Pierce Brosnan stepping into the leading role.

Creative Overhaul Brings Fresh Vision

The sequel's creative team has seen a complete restructuring. Initially set to be directed by Ric Roman Waugh with a script by Mark Bianculli, the project has now taken a new direction. Acclaimed director Jaume Collet-Serra ("Black Adam," "Jungle Cruise") has taken the helm, working from a story developed by Ana Lily Amirpour.

Production Already Underway in the Alps

The cameras are already rolling in Austria's breathtaking Lienz Dolomites, with production scheduled to continue across Germany and Italy. Collet-Serra has emphasized the film's commitment to delivering an authentic cinematic experience through the use of large-format cameras, promising viewers a truly immersive mountain adventure.

The Story Takes a New Direction

While the original plan would have seen Stallone reprising his role as Gabe Walker in a story where his character needed rescue from his mountaineer daughter, the new narrative charts entirely different territory. No official statement has been released regarding Stallone's departure from the project.

Brosnan's New Character and Plot Details

Pierce Brosnan will portray Ray Cooper, an experienced climber who operates a luxury mountain lodge in the Dolomites with his daughter Sydney. The story takes a thrilling turn when they become targets of a criminal organization during a weekend expedition with a billionaire's son. Ray's daughter Naomi (played by Lily James) witnesses the attack and must confront her past climbing trauma while fighting for survival.

Star-Studded International Cast

The production has assembled an impressive ensemble cast including:

Nell Tiger Free (fresh from "The First Omen")

Franz Rogowski ("Passages")

Shubham Saraf ("Shantaram")

Assaad Bouab ("Franklin")

Suzy Bemba ("Poor Things")

Bruno Gouery ("Emily in Paris")

Legacy of the Original

The 1993 "Cliffhanger" stands as a testament to action cinema, having:

Generated $255 million in worldwide box office revenue

Earned three Academy Award nominations for sound and visual effects

Achieved a 68% rating on Rotten Tomatoes

Scored 59/100 on Metascore