Fast & Furious Is Officially Undoing What Vin Diesel Called The “Greatest Moment In Cinematic History”

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The Fast & Furious films are known for their increasingly unbelievable endings. What started as movies about street racing has evolved into a series with huge, over-the-top finales. We’ve seen this with moments like the airplane chase in Fast & Furious 6, the trip to space in F9, and the unresolved cliffhanger at the end of Fast X.

As a huge fan of these movies, I always think about the ending of Fast Five. That scene with the safe barreling through the streets of Brazil is just classic blockbuster action! While it’s probably the most purely entertaining finale the series has done, for me, the ending of Furious 7 actually sticks with you more. It’s just more impactful overall.

The final scene of Furious 7 was a deeply moving farewell to Paul Walker’s character, Brian O’Connor, created after the actor’s tragic death. It provided a fitting tribute that resonated with audiences globally and left Vin Diesel calling it “the greatest moment in cinematic history.” However, the new film, Fast Forever, appears to be reversing the impact of that emotional ending.

Fast Forever Is Bringing Brian O’Connor Back Despite Furious 7’s Paul Walker Sendoff

Last year, Vin Diesel officially announced that Brian O’Conner would be back in Fast 11, promising a reunion between Brian and Dom in the final movie. Since then, Diesel has consistently hinted at Paul Walker’s character appearing in Fast Forever, frequently sharing photos of Walker and himself while promoting the new film on social media.

It’s still unclear if Brian will return, and to what extent. Vin Diesel’s emphasis on Paul Walker hints that Brian could have a significant role, potentially rejoining the team as a key member. However, his appearance could also be brief – just a cameo – depending on how the filmmakers choose to bring the character back in Fast Forever.

Just like with Furious 7, it’s expected that Fast Forever will use CGI and body doubles – probably Paul Walker’s brothers – during filming. Unless Paul Walker’s family, Vin Diesel, and Universal Pictures all agree, it’s highly unlikely the role of Brian will be recast, as that could upset fans.

Brian’s Return In Fast Forever Risks Weakening Furious 7’s Paul Walker Tribute

A key reason the ending of Furious 7 is so effective is its heartfelt tribute to Paul Walker. After his tragic death, it was unclear if the film could—or even should—be finished, and many wondered how Brian’s story would conclude. The final result beautifully honored Walker’s contribution to the franchise and strongly implied that this would be his final appearance as Brian.

For over ten years, fans have wondered if we’d ever see Brian O’Conner back with the family, and it looks like that question is finally being answered. The filmmakers have been dropping hints – remember that car in F9? – suggesting Brian hasn’t been completely absent, just operating behind the scenes. Now, with Fast Forever, it seems we’re getting a full-blown reunion between Brian and Dom, and honestly, the pressure is on to make it a truly satisfying moment for everyone.

Any decisions made need to genuinely justify altering Brian’s established path. The resolution can’t feel forced or diminish his character. Brian’s storyline deserves a strong conclusion, matching the quality of its previous moments. Otherwise, it won’t only harm his part in Fast 11; it will also undermine the emotional impact of Furious 7‘s ending, suggesting the franchise couldn’t honor that as his final appearance.

Now that Brian is definitely returning to the Fast & Furious series, fans are just hoping the new movie, Fast Forever, doesn’t ruin one of the best moments from the entire franchise.

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2026-02-14 20:58