Will Smith has officially stepped down from his lead role in the upcoming action movie “Sugar Bandits,” according to Deadline. The film, based on Chuck Hogan’s novel “Devils in Exile,” follows an Iraq War veteran who, along with other veterans, takes on Boston’s drug trade. The screenplay is penned by Hogan himself, with Italian director Stefano Sollima attached to direct.
Despite Smith’s exit as an actor, he and his production company, Westbrook, will continue as producers on the project. The film was set to begin production in the coming months, but scheduling conflicts have prompted Smith to withdraw from his on-screen role. It remains unclear which project is occupying Smith’s schedule, but his departure has created some uncertainty around the film’s future.
Hogan’s novel “Devils in Exile” tells the story of Neal Maven, an Iraq War veteran struggling to find stable employment after his return. Frustrated by the lack of opportunities, Maven joins forces with other veterans to form a vigilante group aimed at dismantling Boston’s drug trade. As the team delves deeper into the criminal underworld, they face unexpected challenges that test their loyalty and moral compass.
Westbrook is reportedly seeking to recast Smith’s role, with plans to still move forward with “Sugar Bandits” for a 2025 release. However, the $80 million project, which was sold to leading independent distributors and Amazon Prime at the EFM and Cannes with the expectation of Smith’s involvement, now faces an uncertain path forward.
The film had been in pre-production, with scouting completed and plans to shoot in Montreal. Offers to other actors were expected to follow once a start date was finalized. Smith’s recent box office success with “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” which grossed over $400 million globally, has likely contributed to his busy schedule, potentially opening doors for a larger studio project.
Smith remains attached to other high-profile projects, including the sequel to “I Am Legend” alongside Michael B. Jordan. “Sugar Bandits” was first announced in 2013 with Universal originally developing the feature. Now gaining traction in the independent market, the project presents a unique opportunity for buyers, especially after Smith’s notable Oscar moment in 2022.
As Westbrook navigates the search for a new lead, the film’s trajectory will depend on how quickly the production can secure a replacement and adapt to the shifting circumstances surrounding Smith’s departure.