The long-awaited sequel Heat 2 has taken a major step forward, as producer Jerry Bruckheimer has now shared when filming is expected to begin. The movie is based on Michael Mann’s best-selling 2022 novel, which works as both a prequel and sequel to the classic 1995 crime thriller Heat. The story follows detective Vincent Hanna, along with criminals Neil McCauley and Chris Shiherlis, across several global locations.
In a new interview with HeyUGuys, Bruckheimer said that filming will hopefully start in August 2026. When he was asked about Leonardo DiCaprio’s rumored involvement, he explained that “Leonardo is a rumor… one of the key elements,” highlighting that Mann’s vision is just as important.
If production begins on schedule, industry experts believe the movie is likely to release sometime in 2027, which also matches Michael Mann’s earlier goals for the project.
The road to making Heat 2 has not been simple. Although the movie was officially announced in 2023, it faced years of delays. In October 2025, the film changed studios from Warner Bros. to United Artists, part of Amazon MGM Studios, which finally approved the film’s 150 million dollar budget.
As for the cast, things are still uncertain. DiCaprio is strongly rumored, and during a discussion with Deadline, he nearly confirmed that he is involved in the sequel.
Reports also suggest that Christian Bale is taking on a major role, while other actors in talks include Adam Driver as a young Neil McCauley, Austin Butler as Chris Shiherlis, and Bradley Cooper in an undisclosed part. There are also whispers that Al Pacino may return as Vincent Hanna, and Ana de Armas could play Elisa, a young Neil’s girlfriend. Actors Jeremy Allen White and Channing Tatum were also said to be interested in joining the cast.
Right now, casting is still shifting, but everything is expected to settle before filming begins in August 2026. Fans of the original Heat are watching closely, as Heat 2 prepares to become one of the most talked-about crime movies of the decade.